The lack of sterile cleaning techniques and environments would increase the bacterial exposure of an individual reusing intermittent catheters. Even if the proper cleaning techniques are used, the catheter is still exposed for long periods of time and therefore, is susceptible to bacteria collection and proliferation. This is not worth the risk when you put yourself in the vulnerable positions that catheters require.
One of the biggest risks for this bacterial exposure is UTIs. While urinary tract infections are common amongst many individuals with urologic conditions, the rates increase exponentially for those who perform unhygienic intermittent self-catheterization. This is because the bacteria that commonly causes UTIs is more likely to wind up deep inside your urethra when unsafe intermittent self-catheterization techniques are used.
When you reuse an intermittent catheter, your risk for a UTI rises exponentially. When left untreated, bladder infections can move to the kidneys and cause severe, long-lasting damage. Hydrophilic catheters have a specific polymer that reacts with water, increasing the degree of comfort during catheter insertion. Once removed, the coating often comes off and therefore, trying to reuse it can be painful.
If you were to try to reapply another water-soluble lubricant, you may still have remnants of the hydrophilic waste, which can cause build up and further proliferation of germs. The Food and Drug Administration indicates that the regulated user instructions for intermittent catheters apply only once. While there are many symbols on the back of a catheter package, none of them even hint at the safety of reuse. This cannot be stressed enough.
While there are some intermittent catheters on the market that claim to be reusable, the FDA recommends that intermittent catheters are only used as a single-use device. This is because the risk of infection and a lack of sterile environment is too great to be considered safe for reuse. Sometimes "sterile technique" is used.
This means all equipment, including gloves, is sterile. Needed Supplies Resealable freezer bags Tupperware or similar plastic or metal container with a cover 70 percent isopropyl rubbing alcohol Sterilizing the Catheter Rinse catheter with tap water for 30 seconds. Place catheter on paper towel to dry for one hour.
After it is dry, place it in a container with the alcohol for five minutes. Make sure that the entire catheter is covered with alcohol. Remove the catheter from the alcohol container and place in a freezer bag. Store the catheter in a freezer bag without rinsing off the alcohol. Right before using, rinse the catheter with tap water to rinse off the alcohol. Use distilled water if you have well water. Always empty your bladder first thing in the morning and just before you go to bed at night.
You may need to empty your bladder more frequently if you have had more fluids to drink. Avoid letting your bladder get too full. This increases your risk of infection, permanent kidney damage, or other complications. Some catheters are meant to be used only once. Many others can be re-used if cleaned appropriately. Most insurance companies will pay for you to use a sterile catheter for each use. If you are reusing your catheter, you must clean it every day. Always make sure you are in a clean bathroom.
Do not let the catheter touch any of the bathroom surfaces; not the toilet, wall, or floor. When away from your house, carry a separate plastic bag for storing used catheters. If possible, rinse the catheters before placing them in the bag. When you return home, follow the above steps to clean them thoroughly. Fundamentals of urinary tract drainage. Campbell-Walsh-Wein Urology. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; chap Urologic procedures.
Updated by: Kelly L. Editorial team. Self catheterization - male. Clean intermittent catheterization can be done using clean techniques. What to Expect at Home. Using Your Catheter. Follow these steps to insert your catheter: Wash your hands well with soap and water. Collect your supplies, including your catheter open and ready to be used , a towelette or other cleaning wipe, lubricant, and a container to collect the urine if you are not planning to sit on the toilet.
You may use clean disposable gloves if you prefer not to use your bare hands. The gloves do not need to be sterile unless your provider says so. Move back the foreskin of your penis if you are uncircumcised. Wash the tip of your penis with Betadine an antiseptic cleaner , a towelette, soap and water, or baby wipes the way your provider showed you.
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