The Foley catheter is presented as a drainage device with a balloon at the distal end. Liquid enters the balloon through an additional channel, and the valve at the proximal end of the catheter prevents the liquid from flowing back. A balloon filled with liquid ensures a stable condition of the catheter in the bladder for a long time and prevents its prolapse. In order to remove the Foley catheter from the bladder, you will need to first empty the balloon, most often this can be done with an ordinary medical syringe.
Foley catheter for medical procedures
The Foley catheter is designed for various medical procedures related to catheterization of the bladder. The product is made of thermoplastic, it is quite rigid before insertion and softens due to body temperature. The catheter has a smooth transition to the shaft, which significantly reduces the trauma of the patient when it is inserted, it has a closed end and two side openings. An unfolded Foley catheter is packed, this allows you to insert it directly from the package and not touch it with non-sterile hands. Conductors are used to insert pediatric catheters.
Distinctive characteristics of the Foley catheter
The catheter has three independent strokes, with which you can wash the bladder, hemostasis, instillation. The anti-return valve is designed specifically for filling the balloon with a conventional medical syringe without a needle. The catheter is supplied in a sterile package and is intended for single use. A Foley catheter is made of high quality latex and coated with silicone on top. The catheter must be tested for compliance with the quality of production and products of international standards, and therefore completely safe and reliable in use.
Why do you need a Foley catheter
The Foley catheter is most often used for diseases of the genitourinary system (prostate adenoma, cancer of the bladder, urethra). It allows you to greatly improve the quality of life of the patient with difficulty urinating, as well as with many other problems associated with inflammatory or tumor-like processes in the genitourinary system. Often, the Foley catheter is used during surgical interventions for the timely outflow of urine, in which case it will stand until the patient has restored all functions and can not go to the toilet on his own.
Silver-plated Foley catheter
A silver-plated Foley catheter is most often used for the treatment and diagnosis of the bladder, because of the precious metal it can be used for a long time, since silver can kill harmful bacteria that affect the genitourinary system. Despite the rather high cost of a catheter, many patients acquire it, because in this case they receive complete safety and the prevention of infections.
Foley's catheter. Care instructions.
- The skin near the catheter needs to be treated daily.
- The urine bag must be located below the waist.
- The tube from the catheter should not be pulled, it is best to attach it with a pin to the clothes so that it does not interfere while walking.
- While in a horizontal position, make sure that the package is below the level of the belt.
- Loops and kinks on the tube must not be allowed.
- The catheter should be disconnected from the tube when a replacement urine bag is needed.
In which case should I call a doctor immediately?
The doctor needs to call if:
- The catheter is leaking or falling out
- Urine smells pus.
- Impurities of blood, mucus appeared in the urine, or it became more cloudy and thick.
- Within 7-8 hours, urine did not flow from the catheter.
- If the patient feels pain and burning in the abdomen, in the bladder, in the urethra or in the lower back.
- If the patient develops trembling, chills, fever.
The Foley catheter and simple rules for caring for it can significantly improve the quality of life of the patient and make it much easier.