First，Types of urinary catheters and working principle
Urethral catheters can be categorized into a variety of types based on material, design and purpose, including:
Single-use catheters: commonly used for temporary management during surgery or acute urinary retention, and discarded after use to reduce the risk of infection.
Intermittent catheters: for patients with bladder dysfunction, such as those with spinal cord injuries, which require regular self-insertion and removal to facilitate bladder emptying.
Indwelling catheters (catheterized balloon tubes): with a balloon design that is secured by inflation after insertion into the bladder, for patients who require continuous catheterization, such as those in the intensive care unit or during post-operative recovery.
Silicone catheters and latex catheters: Depending on the material, silicone catheters are softer, biocompatible and suitable for long term use, while latex catheters are less costly but may cause allergic reactions.
How it works: The catheter is inserted into the bladder through the urethra to draw the urine out of the bladder and achieve bladder emptying. The balloon of the indwelling catheter is inflated in the bladder to prevent the catheter from slipping out and ensure continuous drainage.
Second，Clinical Applications
Urethral catheters are widely used in a variety of medical scenarios, including but not limited to:
Urinary retention management: In acute urinary retention, the catheter can quickly relieve bladder pressure and avoid the risk of bladder rupture.
During Surgery: Catheters are used during surgery to monitor urine output, assess kidney function, and prevent bladder injury during surgery.
Critical Care: Critically ill patients may require continuous monitoring of urine output and bladder pressure, and catheters provide a non-invasive means of doing so.
Chronic Disease Management: For chronic disease patients with bladder dysfunction, catheters become an important tool for daily management to help maintain a normal life.
Third. Precautions for patient use
Hygiene: Before using the catheter, hands and the area around the urethra should be thoroughly cleaned to avoid infection.
Lubrication: Use of water-soluble lubricants reduces discomfort and risk of injury during insertion.
Regular replacement: Indwelling catheters need to be replaced regularly to avoid catheter-related infections and urinary tract complications.
Monitoring: Observe changes in urine color, volume and odor and report abnormalities promptly.
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