By Dr Shawn XIAO, China Medical Team in NRH of Solomon Islands
HELLO, lovely one! Today I will introduce some health science about urinary catheters and the home care tips for those who are in need.
A urinary catheter is a hollow, partially flexible tube that collects urine from the bladder and leads to a drainage bag.
Catheters may be necessary in cases when you can’t empty your bladder. If the bladder isn’t emptied, urine can build up and lead to pressure in the kidneys. The pressure can lead to kidney failure, which can be dangerous and result in permanent damage to the kidneys.
A doctor may recommend a catheter for the following conditions:
Enlarged Prostate: For elderly male patients experiencing severe enlargement of the prostate gland, resulting in difficulty passing urine, catheters can effectively drain urine and alleviate symptoms.
Post-Surgery Care: Following general numb surgery, patients may require a catheter if they cannot urinate independently or for the convenience of post-surgery care.
Prostate and Bladder Surgery: Catheters are often necessary for cleaning and drainage after surgery on the prostate gland and bladder.
Urethra Protection: Catheters play a crucial role in protecting the urethra from the potential harm of urine, preventing urethra stricture, and facilitating recovery after urethral surgery.
Urinary catheter side effects
1. Pain Management: Patients may experience anxiety leading to bladder spasms and pain. Maintain a positive attitude, distract yourself with activities like walking or reading, and consult your healthcare provider for appropriate pain management.
2. Urine Leakage: It may happen from a blockage in the catheter’s drainage system when blood or other debris gets trapped inside the catheter tube. As the pressure increases in the bladder, urine can bypass the catheter and leak out. Seek advice from your doctor or continence advisor if you have catheter leakage timely.
3. Catheter Displacement: This can happen if the catheter is not placed properly. If the catheter falls out, contact your doctor or nurse immediately, or visit the hospital for prompt treatment.
4. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Look out for symptoms such as cloudy or strong-smelling urine, a burning sensation around the catheter, itching, soreness, blood in urine, abdominal pain, fever, or discomfort in the lower back. If you suspect a UTI, see your doctor promptly for antibiotics and increased water intake.
Home care tips for patients with urine catheters
1. Drink more water: It’s usually a good idea to drink more water, to flush the bacteria away. Ensure you drink plenty of water to maintain clear or slightly yellow urine. Aim for 2000ml-2500ml of water per day.
2. Movement and Activity: Avoid prolonged sitting and heavy lifting while using a catheter. Opt for walks instead of strenuous exercises like running or cycling.
3. Catheter Maintenance: Be cautious of twists or bends in the catheter and ensure the urine bag stays in place to prevent blockages or leaks. Clean the urethral opening and catheter daily, change urine bags regularly, keep the urinary tube unobstructed, and avoid squeezing the urine bag to prevent reflux and potential UTIs. Monitor urine colour, quantity, and quality, and promptly seek help if any abnormalities arise.
In the next issue, I’ll delve deeper into health science knowledge related to urinary system diseases. Until then, take care and stay tuned for more insights.
（Translated by HUANG BAILIN, International Office, Guizhou Medical University）
