Catheterization is a technique used to drain and collect urine from the bladder with the help of a flexible tube called a catheter. The use of catheters is seen in people whose bladder is not empty fully (urinary retention) or at inappropriate times (incontinence). It is also used to inject liquid either for treatment or diagnosing certain conditions. A nurse or doctor usually inserts urinary catheters but self-catheterization is possible. Sized of the catheter is measured by the French catheter scale (F) and the most common sizes are found to be 10 F (3.3mm) to 28 F (9.3mm). TYPES OF CATHETERS There are four types of catheters-  

1. Indwelling catheter (Foley catheter)-It is the one which is left in the bladder because of the small water-filled balloon at the tip which prevents them from falling out. The catheter can be inserted in two ways,

• Through the urethra from where urine is removed outside the body
• Catheter is inserted by making a small hole in the belly which does not involve genital parts.

This catheter is used for a short time or a long time. The urine collected from the catheter is attached to a drainage bag or it has a valve that allows urine to be drained out.  

2. Condom catheter-This type of catheter is used by men for a short term. These are used by men who have no urinary retention or urinary obstruction. There is a low chance of getting an infection by using it. Here, there is no need to insert a tube rather condom-like device is placed over the penis to remove it.

 

3. Intermittent self-catheter-These type of catheter is usually used several times a day to once a week and thrown away every time we use it. It is used to empty the bladder at regular intervals whenever we go toilet. The catheter is also removed once the urine is drained out. One can use it by themselves by inserting it into the bladder through the urethra. This type of catheter is pre-lubricated so insertion can be done easily.

 

4. Suprapubic catheter-These type of catheter is used when the person is not able to use intermittent catheter because of damage or blockage in the urethra. The catheter is inserted by making a hole into the abdomen directly into the bladder which allows urine to be directly drained out from the body. This type of catheter is changed every 4 to 12 weeks.

Depending upon the person's severity and person’s need these catheters is used. Some people prefer to use an indwelling catheter over an intermittent catheter to avoid using a catheter at regular intervals. Using indwelling for a long can cause infection. COMPLICATIONS Using a catheter for short or long-term leads to several complications.

• Long-term catheterization leads to Urinary tract infection (UTI) because of bacteria in the bladder. These are treated by using antibiotics.
• Deposition of mineral salts on retention balloon, leading to catheter blockage.
• bladder spasms occur when there is no urine in the drainage bag. When the catheter is blocked by blood, thick sediment, or a kink in the drainage tubing.
• Leakage around the catheter is a sign of blockage which is associated with indwelling catheters.
• Bladder stones or bladder cancer can develop after using a catheter for many years.
• Injury while inserting the catheter.

  PREVENTION To minimize the risk of infection some precautions one should take-

• Clean the area where the catheters enter the body with plenty of water or by using a mild soap.
• Wash hands before and after with soap for using catheter equipment.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to prevent infections and other issues.
• Eating high rich fibre fruits and vegetables to avoid constipation.
• Clean your drainage bag periodically.
• drainage bag is kept below the bladder

• Sexual activity is a very high risk for urinary infections,

  Living with a catheter can be challenging but it should not be the reason which stops one from doing anything in his/her life. It is normal to live with long-term urinary catheterisation. Using a catheter will not make us stop doing our regular activities like going to work, swimming, exercising etc. Persons who feel that they face issues during sex can use a urethral or a suprapubic catheter to overcome their active sex life. So, do not feel left out or shame of yourself for using a catheter. Nurses and doctors are there who will provide all the information about using a catheter. At last, we should also support, normalize, and make them feel comfortable if they are using the catheter and not make fun of them.