As a parent, few things worry us more than a sick, aching child. If your child is prescribed a urinary catheter, those nerves can turn into full-blown panic – especially if you’ve never used one yourself. There are tons of tips on potty-training, but nobody prepared you for this!
While using a new medical device can feel overwhelming, you can learn to use and care for your child’s catheter with ease. To get you started, here are a few things to know about your child’s urinary catheter.
What is a Urinary Catheter?
A urinary catheter is a thin, flexible tube that is inserted into the bladder in order to drain and collect urine. The tube is inserted into the bladder through the urethra, and urine is emptied into a collection bag outside of the body. Depending on your child’s health condition, they may require either an indwelling or intermittent catheter. Indwelling catheters are left in place while intermittent catheters are used only when needed and then removed immediately afterwards.
Why does my child need a urinary catheter?
Urinary catheters are prescribed when patients are unable to completely empty their bladder without assistance. This commonly occurs during and after surgery, when patients are immobile for long periods. Urinary catheters also help with medical conditions such as incontinence or infections, and they can help reduce pain or discomfort when urinating.
Other reasons your child may need a urinary catheter include:
- Your child is too young to urinate when asked
- Your infant’s doctor needs to test their urine for infection
- Your child’s doctor needs to monitor their urine output
What equipment will I need?
The equipment you use will depend on the type of urinary catheter prescribed to your child. A basic catheter system includes a thin, flexible tube made of latex, silicone, or teflon. Urinary catheters can drain directly into the toilet, or you may need collection bags for ongoing use. Administration supplies can include lubricant, sanitizers, gloves, and other useful items.
How do I care for my child’s catheter?
Good catheter care can ensure your child stays comfortable while getting the best use out of their urinary catheter. You should clean the outside of the catheter as needed with plain water, and check the tubing regularly for kinks, clots, or debris. If your child uses a collection bag, empty it at half-full and clean it each day with warm, soapy water.
Always make sure the area around the catheter insertion site is kept clean and dry at all times; this will help prevent any potential infections from developing around the area where the tube enters the body. You should also make sure your child is drinking plenty of fluids and using good hygiene habits, such as washing their hands well before and after handling their catheter.
Are there risks or complications with catheter use?
Although rare, there are potential complications associated with using a urinary catheter including infection or blockage due to debris buildup in the tube. It is important to monitor your child closely if they are using a urinary catheter as these complications can arise without warning. If you notice any changes in their behavior or if they experience any pain or discomfort while using the catheter, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
You can order intermittent catheter supplies online through ABCPlus!
If your child is using an intermittent catheter, you can have all of your supplies delivered right to your door through our urological supply program. We offer catheters from the top brands, in a variety of styles and sizes, and at affordable prices you’ll love. Visit us online to learn more about the program and get your physician form today.