Whether you wear an external catheter, an indwelling catheter, or some sort of short-term catheter, there’s the need to take proper care of yourself. Doing so reduces the risk of infection and other complications. Follow these four tips and you will find living with a catheter is a little easier.
Taking Care of Tender Skin
Between the line leading to the bag and the bag itself, there’s the potential for skin irritation. It’s important to use products that help soothe the skin and prevent rashes from spreading. Assuming you’ve already made sure the surgical tape you use to keep the line in place is not the cause of the irritation, use a mild soap to clean the area. Pat it dry and maybe even apply mesh dressings of some type until the irritation heals.
The Bag Should Be Positioned Below the Bladder But Not All the Way to the Floor
Any type of catheter will work more efficiently if you ensure the bag is positioned properly. Attaching the bag to the thigh is a good idea. That will ensure there’s not enough length to the line to tangle, and it also keeps the bag below the bladder. When secured properly, the indwelling catheter, line, and bag, will work properly. You’ll also find that this position makes it easier to hide the bad and line under your clothing.
Showering Safely
You already know that attempting to take a bath is not a good idea. Even when you are wearing some sort of removable catheter, it has to come out before you step into the bath water. Showers are a good way to keep clean, assuming you take a few precautions.
Use mild soap around the area where the catheter is inserted and rinse those areas thoroughly. Make sure they are dried and that the line is still secure. You may also want to shower with your night bag attached rather than the bag that’s normally attached to your leg. Remember to remove any mesh dressings that you normally wear and dry those areas carefully before applying any fresh dressing or bandaging.
Wash Your Hands Before Touching the Bag or Line
If you need to touch the catheter or bag for any reason, wash your hands first. The goal is to minimize the possibility of any bacteria transferring into the line itself or at the point where the catheter enters your body. Carefully remove any mesh dressings if you need to adjust the line or have to replace a bag. Once done, apply fresh dressings and make sure the line is securely in position.
Whether the need for a catheter is temporary or if you will wear an indwelling catheter for the rest of your life, learn how to care for yourself properly. Doing so will prevent infections and other complications that would only make your health worse. Remember to ask your doctor if you have any questions or notice that something seems to be interfering with the way the catheter functions.
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