There are several reasons you may need to use catheterization, from illness and injury to mobility issues or recovery from surgery. While it might seem fairly straightforward, there are actually a lot of different options to choose from. To help you find the best type, material, size, and length, we'll go over everything you need to know regarding how to choose the best catheter for your needs.
Different Types of Urinary Catheters
First, it's important to understand which type of catheter you will need. Different catheters are often used for different reasons, so it's best to speak with your doctor about your circumstances before making any orders. The three primary types include the following:
Indwelling Catheters
Also known as Foley catheters, these catheters are designed to remain inside the body for an extended period of time. They're made from a flexible tube with an inflatable balloon at one end, which is inserted into the bladder. The balloon is inflated with sterile water to keep the catheter securely in place. Oftentimes, these are used for patients who are unable to control their urine flow due to various medical conditions such as paralysis, surgery, or certain illnesses. They are often used in hospitals and long-term care facilities.
Intermittent Catheters
Intermittent catheters are designed to be inserted into the bladder to drain urine, removed, and thrown away. They're not meant to be kept inside the body longer than needed to empty your bladder. Intermittent catheters are commonly used by individuals with conditions such as spinal cord injuries, urinary retention, or those who have difficulty emptying their bladder. Clean intermittent self-catheterization helps reduce the risk of infections compared to indwelling catheters.
External Catheters
External catheters, also known as condom catheters, are designed to fit over the external genitalia. Unlike other types of catheters, they do not enter the bladder. Instead, they collect urine from the tip of the penis and direct it into a collection bag. There are also options for external female catheters, but they may be less effective. External catheters are a non-invasive alternative to internal catheters and are suitable for those who do not require continuous drainage.
How to Choose the Right Catheter
If you need to use a catheter at home, it'll likely be an intermittent catheter or an external one. To help you choose a catheter that offers the best comfort and safety for your needs, consider the following differences.
Coudé Tip vs. Straight Tip Catheter
Coudé tip catheters have a curved or tapered tip. This design is especially beneficial for individuals with conditions that make it challenging to navigate insertion into the urinary tract, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia or urethral strictures. Straight-tip catheters have a straight, unaltered tip. They're commonly used for routine catheterization procedures and may suit individuals without specific anatomical challenges. The main difference between a straight tip and a coudé tip lies in the shape of the catheter tip. Everything else is similar, as both options come in various materials, coatings, and sizes.
Latex vs. Silicone Catheter Materials
Latex catheters are made from natural rubber latex. They are flexible and conform well to the shape of the urinary tract. The average catheter has historically been made from latex, but allergies have sparked the development of alternatives. Silicone catheters are made from a synthetic material known as silicone rubber. They are smooth, flexible, and inert and are oftentimes less likely to irritate the urethra. If you have issues with allergies or would prefer to use a hypoallergenic material, silicone may be a better option than latex. Red rubber catheters are also an option.
Coated vs. Lubricated Catheter Options
Coated catheters have a slippery surface coating, often made from hydrophilic materials. When exposed to water, this coating becomes lubricated, facilitating smoother insertion. These are often referred to as hydrophilic catheters. The hydrophilic coating may help make insertion into the urethra more comfortable and convenient, but lubrication will also reduce friction. Lubricated catheters come pre-lubricated with a gel or liquid. This is often a good option for individuals who want a discreet, ready-to-use catheter without having to activate it.
How to Choose the Right French Size
Understanding catheter French sizes is another important aspect of maximizing comfort and efficiency. The French size, often denoted as Fr, refers to the diameter of the catheter tube. This can change based on anatomy, the reason for catheterization, and medical conditions.
The French size is measured in millimeters, with one French unit equal to 0.33 millimeters. For example, a 12 Fr catheter has a diameter of approximately 4 millimeters. The most common range of French sizes for urinary catheters is between 8 Fr and 18 Fr, with smaller sizes typically used for pediatric patients and larger sizes for adults.
Typically speaking, the French size for adult women is between 10 and 12, and the range for adult men is typically between 14 and 16, with most men averaging closer to 14. Additionally, children who need pediatric catheterization may use a size that ranges between 6 and 10.
Remember, a catheter that is too large may cause unnecessary trauma and discomfort during insertion, while one that is too small might not effectively drain urine or become easily blocked. Talk to your doctor about how to find the right size catheter for your needs.
Choosing the Correct Catheter Length
Selecting the appropriate catheter length is another critical consideration to determine the right option. Catheters come in various lengths, and choosing the right one depends on factors such as the patient's anatomy, gender, and the intended use of the catheter.
The length of a catheter is measured in inches or centimeters and refers to the distance from the tip to the top of the catheter shaft. Standard lengths for urinary catheters typically range from about 10 to 16 inches. You'll want one long enough for proper insertion but not so long that it goes too deep.
On average, the male length of a catheter will be longer due to the length of the male urethra. Additionally, intermittent catheters are shorter than indwelling since they're removed after use. Your doctor will help you determine the best length catheters for your needs.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Urinary Catheter
Since there are many types and sizes available, you have plenty of options to choose from. However, the wrong catheter may not provide you with the comfort and efficiency that you need. Therefore, it's important to consider the following things when choosing your supplies.
- Safety
- Size
- Comfort
- Efficacy
- Handling
- Mobility
Each factor can influence the type of catheter best for your body, which is why it's best to partner with a professional. In fact, choosing your catheter supplies should be done with your doctor first to help you understand which option is best for your needs. However, once you find something that works for you, you can make orders directly from a medical supply site like Byram Healthcare.
Reducing the Risk of Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections
Reducing the risk of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) is important in ensuring the well-being of individuals requiring catheterization. The best way to achieve this is to prioritize hand hygiene during self-catheterization. You should also never reuse intermittent catheters and always take the necessary steps to clean the area around the catheter insertion site thoroughly. While you need to use catheterization, make sure you keep an eye out for any signs of infection, such as fever or changes in urine color and odor, and see your doctor if you notice anything strange.
Regardless of your insurance plan, there are many instances where catheters are covered, and you won't need to spend thousands of dollars on your care. Medicaid guidelines for catheter coverage require documentation and a prescription from your doctor, while managed Medicaid plans require a slightly different approach. You can often get reimbursement for intermittent catheters with several types of insurance.
To help you navigate the insurance process when dealing with your urologic supplies, Byram Healthcare is here. As one of the leading medical supply companies in the country, we work with Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance providers to help you navigate the intricate process of obtaining insurance-covered urologic products. Byram provides a better patient financial experience because we’re in-network with over 260 million covered lives. This translates to lower co-pays and deductibles. Learn more about our mission or browse our urology product catalog today.
