Urination is a process that helps eliminate waste from the body. However, some people might find it difficult to pee or control their urge to pee. This is when a urinary catheter, a thin, flexible tube, is inserted directly or through a small opening in the lower tummy. The catheter is placed within the bladder, and it helps empty the bladder, thereby preventing infections. It is also used to collect urine for further diagnosis and treatment.

When is a urinary catheter used?
A urinary catheter is opted for when a person cannot control the flow of urine, has accidental leakages, or is experiencing urine retention. This is when they feel that the bladder is still full even after urination. This means that the person may not be able to empty their bladder completely.

It is also used if a person undergoes surgery on their genitals and for people with medical conditions such as dementia, injury to the spinal cord, etc.

A urinary catheter is sometimes used for direct delivery of treatment-related substances to the bladder and during childbirth if the mother has had an epidural anesthetic.

Different types of urinary catheters
The three main types of urinary catheters are as follows:

• Indwelling catheter
  This catheter, also known as a Foley catheter, is inserted by a nurse inside the bladder. The procedure is done either through the urethra or through a small opening in the lower stomach. It consists of a tiny water-inflated balloon that can be deflated after the procedure is no longer necessary. This balloon helps keep the tube in place and prevents it from slipping out.
• External catheters
  They are also known as condom catheters and are placed outside the body. They are mainly used for males and those who have been affected by serious functional or mental health conditions such as dementia.
  
  These are less invasive devices similar to condoms and are supposed to be worn the same way. It collects urine and transfers it to the drainage bag attached to the leg of the wearer. Though they are easy to manage and do not restrict movement, external catheters have to be changed every day.
• Short-term catheters
  As the name suggests, these catheters are used specifically for those who don’t have to use the device for extended periods. This can also include before and after surgery when short-term catheters are used a couple of times to drain the urine from the patient’s body.
  
  Short-term catheters can be used at home with or without the assistance of a caregiver. However, the usage of this device depends on the reason for its utilization and the amount of urine that is required to be drained.

Types of drainage bags
Urinary catheters consist of three drainage bags, depending on their usage. The smaller among the two is designed to be attached to the leg and should be used during the daytime, as it stays discreet under the clothes. The patient can easily drain the urine in a toilet. The second drainage bag is a comparatively large device that is attached to a hook beneath the bed intended to be used overnight. The third drainage bag, often called a belly bag, can be worn around the waist and will stay discreet below the undergarments.

Maintenance of urinary catheters
Urinary catheters can either be one-time use or reusable. The maintenance of the urinary catheter depends on the type the patient uses. People who opt for reusable ones need to make sure that the catheter and the area of insertion are cleaned properly to avoid infections. Soap and water can be used for effective cleaning.

On the other hand, one-time use catheters are sterile and only require the area of the body to be cleaned before insertion. However, the drainage bags need to be emptied every eight hours or when full. A mixture of vinegar and water or bleach and water can be used for cleaning the drainage bag.

Ways to prevent infections
Urinary catheters may cause infections such as UTIs in the absence of precautions, including proper cleaning of the device, including cleaning the catheter and part of the body from where the device exits. It is essential to opt for the sterile aseptic method of urinary catheterization and ensure clean hands while disconnecting the drainage bag. Other things to keep in mind to avoid infections are to drink plenty of water and keep the drainage bag clean.

These are a few of the many important factors that a catheterized person must be aware of. They must consult their physician immediately if they notice any symptoms of infection.