How does a Foley catheter work. What is the proper technique for inserting a Foley catheter. How to maintain and care for a Foley catheter and drainage system. What are the potential complications associated with Foley catheters. How to prevent catheter-associated urinary tract infections.

What is a Foley Catheter and How Does It Function?

A Foley catheter, also known as an indwelling urinary catheter, is a flexible tube designed to drain urine from the bladder. It consists of a hollow tube with a small inflatable balloon at the tip. Once inserted into the bladder through the urethra, the balloon is filled with sterile water or saline solution, anchoring the catheter in place.

The primary function of a Foley catheter is to provide continuous drainage of urine from the bladder into a collection bag. This is particularly useful in situations where a person is unable to urinate independently or requires close monitoring of urine output.

Key Components of a Foley Catheter

• Catheter tube: The main body of the device, typically made of silicone or latex
• Inflation balloon: Located at the tip, it keeps the catheter securely in the bladder
• Drainage port: The opening through which urine flows out
• Inflation valve: Used to fill and empty the balloon
• Drainage bag: Collects urine from the catheter

Is there a difference between short-term and long-term Foley catheters? Yes, there is. Short-term catheters are typically used for less than 30 days and are often made of latex. Long-term catheters, intended for use beyond 30 days, are usually made of silicone to reduce the risk of allergic reactions and irritation.

The Insertion Process: How is a Foley Catheter Placed?

The placement of a Foley catheter is a sterile procedure that should only be performed by trained healthcare professionals. The process involves several steps to ensure proper insertion and minimize the risk of infection.

1. Patient preparation: The individual is positioned comfortably, and the genital area is thoroughly cleansed with an antiseptic solution.
2. Sterile field creation: The healthcare provider sets up a sterile field and dons sterile gloves.
3. Catheter lubrication: A water-soluble lubricant is applied to the catheter to ease insertion.
4. Insertion: The catheter is gently inserted through the urethra until urine begins to flow, indicating it has reached the bladder.
5. Balloon inflation: Once in place, the balloon is inflated with sterile water or saline solution.
6. Connection to drainage system: The catheter is connected to a sterile drainage bag.
7. Secure placement: The catheter is secured to the patient’s thigh to prevent movement and potential injury.

Can the insertion of a Foley catheter cause discomfort? While the procedure may cause some discomfort, it should not be painful. If a patient experiences significant pain during insertion, the healthcare provider should stop and reassess the situation.

Proper Care and Maintenance of Foley Catheters

Maintaining a Foley catheter requires diligence and adherence to proper hygiene practices. Proper care not only ensures the catheter functions correctly but also significantly reduces the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other complications.

Daily Catheter Care Routine

• Hand hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling the catheter or drainage system.
• Perineal care: Clean the genital area and catheter insertion site at least twice daily with soap and water.
• Drainage bag management: Empty the drainage bag when it’s 1/2 to 3/4 full to prevent backflow.
• Hydration: Maintain adequate fluid intake to promote urine flow and prevent blockages.
• Position management: Keep the drainage bag below the level of the bladder to ensure proper drainage.

How often should the entire catheter system be changed? The frequency of catheter changes depends on the type of catheter and individual circumstances. Generally, silicone catheters can remain in place for up to 12 weeks, while latex catheters typically require changing every 2-4 weeks. However, always follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions.

Potential Complications and How to Avoid Them

While Foley catheters are invaluable medical devices, they are not without risks. Understanding potential complications and taking steps to prevent them is crucial for patient safety and comfort.

Common Complications Associated with Foley Catheters

• Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs)
• Bladder spasms
• Urethral trauma or erosion
• Blockage or obstruction
• Balloon deflation failure
• Encrustation and stone formation

What is the most effective way to prevent catheter-associated complications? The most effective strategy is to remove the catheter as soon as it’s no longer medically necessary. When ongoing catheterization is required, strict adherence to hygiene protocols, proper catheter care, and regular assessments by healthcare professionals are essential.

Alternatives to Indwelling Catheters: Exploring Other Options

While Foley catheters are commonly used, they are not always the best option for every patient. Healthcare providers may consider alternative methods of urinary management depending on the individual’s condition and needs.

Alternative Catheterization Methods

• Intermittent catheterization: Involves inserting and removing a catheter several times a day to empty the bladder.
• Suprapubic catheterization: A catheter is inserted directly into the bladder through a small incision in the lower abdomen.
• Condom catheters: External devices used for men that fit over the penis like a condom.
• Urinary sheaths: Similar to condom catheters but designed for longer-term use.

Are there non-invasive alternatives to catheterization? Yes, in some cases. Behavioral techniques such as bladder training, pelvic floor exercises, and timed voiding can help manage certain urinary issues without the need for catheterization.

The Impact of Foley Catheters on Daily Life and Activities

Living with a Foley catheter can significantly impact a person’s daily routine and quality of life. Understanding these impacts and learning to adapt can help individuals maintain a sense of normalcy and independence.

Adapting to Life with a Foley Catheter

• Clothing choices: Opt for loose-fitting clothes that accommodate the catheter and drainage bag.
• Activity modifications: Learn how to secure the catheter during physical activities.
• Travel considerations: Plan for catheter care and supply needs when away from home.
• Intimacy and relationships: Discuss concerns with healthcare providers and partners.
• Mental health: Address any feelings of anxiety or depression related to catheter use.

Can individuals with Foley catheters lead active lifestyles? Absolutely. With proper education and support, most people with Foley catheters can participate in a wide range of activities, including work, exercise, and social engagements. It’s important to consult with healthcare providers about any specific concerns or limitations.

Innovations in Catheter Technology: What’s on the Horizon?

The field of urinary catheterization is continually evolving, with researchers and manufacturers working to improve catheter design, materials, and functionality. These innovations aim to enhance patient comfort, reduce complications, and improve overall outcomes.

Emerging Catheter Technologies

• Antimicrobial coatings: Designed to reduce the risk of catheter-associated UTIs.
• Smart catheters: Equipped with sensors to monitor urine flow, temperature, and other parameters.
• Biodegradable materials: Catheters that naturally break down over time, reducing the need for removal procedures.
• Nanotechnology: Utilizing nanoparticles to create smoother, more biocompatible catheter surfaces.
• Self-lubricating catheters: Designed to make insertion easier and more comfortable.

How might these innovations impact patient care? These advancements have the potential to significantly reduce catheter-associated complications, improve patient comfort, and provide healthcare providers with more accurate and timely information about a patient’s condition. This could lead to more personalized and effective catheter management strategies.

The Role of Healthcare Providers in Foley Catheter Management

Healthcare providers play a crucial role in the successful management of Foley catheters. Their responsibilities extend beyond initial placement to include ongoing assessment, patient education, and complication prevention.

Key Responsibilities of Healthcare Providers

• Assessing the need for catheterization and exploring alternatives
• Ensuring proper catheter insertion technique
• Providing comprehensive patient and caregiver education
• Monitoring for complications and addressing them promptly
• Regularly evaluating the continued need for catheterization
• Coordinating care with other healthcare team members

What role do nurses play in catheter care? Nurses are often at the forefront of catheter management. They are responsible for day-to-day catheter care, patient education, and monitoring for complications. Their expertise is invaluable in ensuring optimal catheter function and minimizing risks to patient health.

Understanding the intricacies of Foley catheters, from their basic function to proper care and potential complications, is crucial for both healthcare providers and patients. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see improvements in catheter design and management strategies that will enhance patient outcomes and quality of life. By staying informed about best practices and emerging innovations, we can work towards more effective and comfortable urinary management solutions for those who require them.

How Does A Catheter Work?

A catheter drains urine from the bladder into a drainage bag which may be supported at thigh or calf level. The leg drainage bag requires changing every 5 to 7 days depending on manufacturers instructions.

A Belly Bag or a catheter valve may be recommended. Your District Nurse or Continence Advisor will advise you on which type may be appropriate for your needs.

If you do use a leg drainage bag then it requires emptying when it is half to three-quarters full. Always ensure it does not pull on the catheter.

The bags are usually of 350ml, 500ml, 750ml or 1litre capacity for daytime use (depending on manufacturer). At night an extra 2-litre bag can be fitted easily to the day leg bag to increase the available capacity. These larger night bags mean you don’t have to get up in the night to empty the bag. They should be supported on a catheter drainage bag stand.

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The Catheter in Situ

An indwelling urethral catheter is passed through the urethra (the tube through which urine passes). This is the usual method of draining urine from the bladder when short-term drainage is required (usually less than 30 days).

If you are sexually active it may be possible to be taught to remove your indwelling urethral catheter prior to intercourse and insert a new one afterwards. You may wish to discuss this with your partner. The District Nurse or Continence Advisor will advise you so don’t be embarrassed to discuss this.

Suprapubic Catheters

In some cases when long term catheterisation is needed (longer than 30 days), the preferred method of drainage is via a suprapubic catheter. This method involves a small operation to form an artificial track directly into the bladder and the catheter is inserted through the lower abdominal wall directly below the belly button. Both men and women can have this type of catheter.

This type of catheter is generally administered when the urethral route cannot be used or if a person is still sexually active. It also reduces the risks of complications from catheter-associated urinary tract infections which are more commonly associated with urethral indwelling catheters.

A Suprapubic catheter is normally inserted whilst in hospital and may require an overnight stay, however, the routine changes to the catheter can be done at home. Many District Nurses and Continence Advisors are well practised in this procedure.

Some people prefer to cover the site with a dry dressing but this is only necessary for the initial few weeks after insertion or if there is leakage or exudate. The area needs to be kept clean by daily bathing or whilst showering, or by cleansing with soap and water and drying well afterwards.

Leg bags and catheter valves can be used by those assessed for suitability but some users of suprapubic catheters may find the Belly Bag more useful. These are available on prescription, see your Healthcare Professional for information.

Please see our additional resources for more information:

• Indwelling Catheterisation
• Suprapubic Catheters
• Drainage Bags
• Attaching or disconnecting a drainage bag
• Catheter Problems

You can download our complete Catheter Care Guide here, or read our FAQ’s session with our very own Catheter Nurse.

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Bladdercatheter

Foley Catheter Placement and Care

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 3, 2023.

• Care notes
• Aftercare
• Ambulatory
• Discharge
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What is a Foley catheter?

A Foley catheter is a sterile tube that is inserted into your bladder to drain urine. It is also called an indwelling urinary catheter. The tip of the catheter has a small balloon filled with solution that holds the catheter in your bladder.

How is a Foley catheter placed?

Your genital area will be cleaned to prevent infection. The catheter will be inserted into your urethra. When urine begins to flow into the tubing, the balloon is filled to keep the catheter in place. Then, the open end will be attached to a drainage bag.

How do I care for my catheter and drainage bag?

You can reduce your risk for infection and injury by caring for your catheter and drainage bag properly.

• Wash your hands often. Wash before and after you touch your catheter, tubing, or drainage bag. Use soap and water. Wear clean disposable gloves when you care for your catheter or disconnect the drainage bag. Wash your hands before you prepare or eat food.
  
• Clean your genital area 2 times every day. Clean your catheter area and anal opening after every bowel movement.
  • For men: Use a soapy cloth to clean the tip of your penis. Start where the catheter enters. Wipe backward making sure to pull back the foreskin. Then use a cloth with clear water in the same direction to clean away the soap.
  • For women: Use a soapy cloth to clean the area that the catheter enters your body. Make sure to separate your labia and wipe toward the anus. Then use a cloth with clear water and wipe in the same direction.
• Secure the catheter tube so you do not pull or move the catheter. This helps prevent pain and bladder spasms. Healthcare providers will show you how to use medical tape or a strap to secure the catheter tube to your body.
• Keep a closed drainage system. Your catheter should always be attached to the drainage bag to form a closed system. Do not disconnect any part of the closed system unless you need to change the bag.
• Keep the drainage bag below the level of your waist. This helps stop urine from moving back up the tubing and into your bladder. Do not loop or kink the tubing. This can cause urine to back up and collect in your bladder. Do not let the drainage bag touch or lie on the floor.
• Empty the drainage bag when needed. The weight of a full drainage bag can be painful. Empty the drainage bag every 3 to 6 hours or when it is ⅔ full.
• Clean and change the drainage bag as directed. Ask your healthcare provider how often you should change the drainage bag and what cleaning solution to use. Wear disposable gloves when you change the bag. Do not allow the end of the catheter or tubing to touch anything. Clean the ends with an alcohol pad before you reconnect them.

What can I do if problems develop?

• No urine is draining into the bag:
  • Check for kinks in the tubing and straighten them out.
  • Check the tape or strap used to secure the catheter tube to your skin. Make sure it is not blocking the tube.
  • Make sure you are not sitting or lying on the tubing.
  • Make sure the urine bag is hanging below the level of your waist.
• Urine leaks from or around the catheter, tubing, or drainage bag: Check if the closed drainage system has accidently come open or apart. Clean the catheter and tubing ends with a new alcohol pad and reconnect them.

When should I seek immediate care?

• Your catheter comes out.
• You suddenly have material that looks like sand in the tubing or drainage bag.
• No urine is draining into the bag and you have checked the system.
• You have pain in your hip, back, pelvis, or lower abdomen.
• You are confused or cannot think clearly.

When should I call my doctor?

• You have a fever.
• You have bladder spasms for more than 1 day after the catheter is placed.
• You see blood in the tubing or drainage bag.
• You have a rash or itching where the catheter tube is secured to your skin.
• Urine leaks from or around the catheter, tubing, or drainage bag.
• The closed drainage system has accidently come open or apart.
• You see a layer of crystals inside the tubing.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

© Copyright Merative 2023 Information is for End User’s use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Foley catheter – installation, dimensions, characteristics and algorithm of operation of the urological Foley catheter

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Indwelling Foley catheter for urination is a latex or silicone device, a tube with three-way or two-way balloon catheters, used in urological and gynecological practice. The main scope of this catheter:

• bladder diversion,
• treatment of pathologies and injuries of the urinary system in men and women, children of different ages,
• preparation for surgical interventions,
• labor stimulation,
• Diagnosis of certain pathologies.

If the patient has urinary diversion problems, the catheter is placed in a situation where prolonged emptying of the bladder is needed. In some cases, depending on the characteristics, it can be used up to 90 days.

How the Foley catheter works

Let’s take a quick look at what this medical catheter looks like and how it works. This is a long tube, at one end of which there is a smooth tip with two slots through which urine is drained from the bladder, and a balloon is inflated just below them, which does not allow the product to fall out of the body by blocking the neck of the bladder from the inside. At the other end of the tube stand out:

• hole through which urine is drained;
• separate opening through which the balloon is filled;
• special anti-reflux valve.

Three-way catheters also have an additional opening through which drugs can be injected.

These types of catheters are used for those patients who need catheterization within a week to a month (or longer). They are very effective against urinary retention. Urine begins to flow immediately after the device is installed. The basic principle of operation is the passive outflow of urine from the bladder through the holes into the tube and urinal.

What are Foley catheters?

Based on the material used to make the product, catheters are divided into three types:

1. Latex products .

They are characterized by high strength, resistance to constant contact with urine, high flexibility and elasticity. Many patients note that the introduction of latex catheters is the most comfortable, but this is an allergenic compound, so a layer of silicone is often applied over the latex.

2. Silicone catheters .

They have been used for many years, are highly compatible with tissues, are resistant to high temperatures and do not cause salt deposits in the inner lumen. In addition, the products are hypoallergenic, but slightly less elastic than latex.

3. Silver plated silicone .

Products have antimicrobial properties, help in the elimination of pathogenic flora, reducing the risk of urinary tract infection during prolonged use of the catheter.

According to the design features of catheters are divided into two groups:

• Two-way is a classic version of a catheter with one common channel and two endings. One of them is needed to divert urine, and the second – to fill the fixing balloon inside the bladder. This system allows you to maintain the sterility of the system, minimizing the risk of serious complications.
• Three-Way – equipped with an additional port used to inject drugs. This is a modern and multifunctional model with a wide range of uses.

By age and gender catheters are divided into three varieties, which determine how to choose a product:

1. Male version of products with a key feature – up to 40 cm in length due to the fact that the male urethra is much longer than the female.
2. Women’s item is 26 cm long because the length of the female urethra is shorter.
3. Pediatric Foley Catheters – these are products up to 28 cm long, they come with special stylets that help facilitate their insertion.

Bladder Foley Catheter: How to Place it

When choosing a particular catheter model, it is important to consider the main indications, the expected duration of catheterization, and the age of the patient. The doctor will tell you how to determine the size and type of the product: the diameter of the tube is determined by the size of the urethra, where the catheter is inserted to pass it into the bladder cavity. The dimensions of the outer part can be from 2.7 to 8.7 mm, and the inner ones from 1.7 to 6.9mm.

An equally important question is how often catheters are changed. If it is latex, it can stand up to 7 days, silicone catheter up to 30 days. Next, the doctor determines how to lubricate the tip before insertion. These are usually sterile aqueous lubricants, as well as pre-immersion in saline.

Foley catheter care – how to flush, how often to change, treatment of an indwelling urinary Foley catheter0004

Contents of the article:

• Why and how the catheter is inserted
• Insertion of a catheter
• How often to change
• How to care for
• How to flush
• Caring for a urinal
• Showering with catheter
• Infection prevention
• When to call a specialist

In some serious pathologies of the urogenital tract, after injuries or operations, against the background of tumor growth, the outflow of urine from the bladder through the urethra to the outside may be disturbed. In these cases, it may be necessary to install an indwelling catheter through which urine will be drained. In order to prevent complications associated with the presence of a foreign object in the bladder (even for medical purposes), you must follow the rules for caring for a permanent Foley urinary catheter. This will allow the patient to lead a relatively normal life.

Why and how a catheter is placed

This device is a small plastic or silicone tube that is inserted through the urethra into the bladder cavity. In women and men, the length of the urethra is different, there are features in the choice and placement of the catheter, with minimal discomfort for the patient. Having a catheter helps drain urine that forms in the kidneys and accumulates in the bladder if the person is unable to urinate on their own. However, the Foley catheter communicates with the external environment, urine is separated through it, the product can become dirty, clogged, which requires regular cleaning and proper care. In addition, the patient needs to wash, change linen and clothes, which requires knowledge of how to care for the Foley catheter at home .

Irrigation, regular replacement of catheters with new products and processing of the Foley catheter are important to prevent the penetration of pathogenic microbes into the genitourinary tract and the development of inflammation and severe complications. Infection when using a catheter is dangerous as a relapse or complication of the underlying disease, which can lead to re-hospitalization. Regular maintenance of Foley catheter care routines helps prolong their life, so they will need to be changed less frequently.

Placement of the catheter

Before starting manipulations, it is necessary to perform all hygiene procedures. The doctor thoroughly washes his hands, puts on sterile gloves, the patient’s perineum is treated with soap and water, antiseptics. The catheter is taken with sterile tweezers, the tip is treated with a lubricant to facilitate insertion.

A woman is placed with a special female catheter, taking into account the length and width of the urethra. It is inserted in the supine position, with knees bent, legs apart. After treating the perineum, the doctor pushes the labia apart, gently inserting the tip of the catheter into the opening of the urethra. With the beginning of the separation of the urine catheter, the introduction is stopped. After that, sterile water is injected through one of the holes at the other end of the product to inflate the balloon and fix the product in the bladder. A urinal is attached to another hole.

In men, a longer catheter is used, taking into account the size of the urethra. It is administered in the same way, in the prone position, with knees bent, legs apart. The product is driven slowly, gently, first holding the penis in an upright position, then tilting it down. When the urine is separated, the movement is stopped.

How often is the Foley catheter changed? So, silicone can be used up to 30 days, latex – up to a week, silver-plated – up to 90 days.

How to care for your Foley catheter

If the product is correctly installed by your doctor, it does not require frequent cleaning. When urine is separated, the device flushes naturally. Often, to enhance the cleansing effect of the urine itself, patients are prescribed cranberry fruit drinks, fresh berries, and herbal preparations with antiseptic effects.

Irrigation of the Foley catheter may be required if the urine is cloudy, flakes, salts on the walls or sediment, if the lumen of the tube is periodically clogged.

How to wash the Foley catheter at home

You can use a weak solution of potassium permanganate (1:10000), “Dioxidin”, which is diluted with water 1:40 or “Furacillin” (1 tablet 0.1 g per 100 ml of liquid). It is possible to wash the catheter with Miramistin, a ready-made pharmacy solution or a remedy recommended by the doctor. Washing is carried out in such a way that the patient does not feel pain and discomfort.

It is important to wash your hands thoroughly, use a sterile syringe that delivers the solution. The urinal is disconnected from the tube, the end is treated with antibacterial solutions. Then a syringe is attached, which slowly feeds the solution for washing. It is necessary to apply first about 20-30 ml, after the introduction of liquid into the bladder, the syringe is disconnected. It flows back by itself. Washing is repeated three times, then reattaching the urinal.

Caring for your urinal

It is important to maintain your urinals regularly. If this is a disposable product, as it is filled, it is disconnected and disposed of. Reusable products are washed daily with soap and rinsed with antiseptics. Urine is drained about once every 3-4 hours, or more often if a large volume of urine is excreted.

The urinal must always be below the level of the bladder. Change the reusable product as it wears out, as directed by the doctor.

Shower with catheter and urinal

It is important to maintain body hygiene by showering regularly. This reduces the risk of infection.