Closed System Intermittent Catheters and Kits

A Closed-System Catheter Kit includes various essential items and unique features to help prevent complications and discomfort associated with catheterization. The introducer tip, or the inserted end of the catheter, reduces risk of urinary tract infection by shielding the sterile part of the tip through the first few millimeters of the urethra. Self-catheterization kits typically include an intermittent closed-system catheter, underpads, gloves, gauze, and PVP swab sticks. The completely sterile "no-touch" system includes everything you need for successful catheterization.

An open drainage system means the fluid retrieved by the catheter is expelled onto a pad or into a bedpan. In other words, the outlet end of the tube simply allows the urine to flow into whatever unattached item is waiting to collect it. A closed drainage system means the tube is connected to a drainage bag. The drainage bag is then emptied and changed periodically throughout the day.

The most common complication of a urinary bladder catheterization is a urinary tract infection. This can be very painful and uncomfortable for most people. Other potential side effects of urinary bladder catheterization include bladder stones, blood infections, blood in the urine, urethral tissue injury, kidney infections, or in rare cases, kidney damage. To prevent any of these side effects, whether you are using a firm catheter or a soft catheter, be sure to follow sterilization protocols. Never handle your catheter materials without washing your hands thoroughly and disinfecting them.

A closed catheter system does not release the urine anywhere. Instead, the urine is collected in a bag that must be periodically emptied and changed. You may carefully empty a drainage bag when it is about three-quarters full. When emptying or changing the drainage bag, be sure to sterilize your working area, hands, and genitals. This can help prevent the transmission of bacteria. A Closed System Catheter Kit comes with all the materials needed to complete self-catheterization safely and easily. They are sterile, convenient, single-use systems suitable for both genders.

The Closed System Intermittent Catheter is very simple to use. First, gather all of your supplies like sterilization wipes and alcohol pads and place them in front of you. Verify that all the products you have are not past the expiration date. Then you may wash your hands thoroughly with warm, soapy water. Disinfect both your hands and genitals. Then remove the tip of the catheter from the packaging and begin insertion of this pre-lubricated catheter gently. Once inserted, you can remove the remainder of the packaging and attach the drainage bag. Check for leaks to ensure everything has been connected easily. The system works with gravity so the bag must be placed below the bladder in order for the catheter system to work properly. When emptying or changing the drainage bag or removing the catheter, remember to disinfect your hands first.

Most Closed System Catheters are all-in-one products and should not be reused; therefore, cleaning or flushing this type of catheter is unnecessary. Closed-system catheters, however, are convenient and come packaged with a pre-lubricated tip and pre-attached drainage bag minimizing contact and the risk of infection.

To flush a Foley catheter – or irrigate the catheter – start by washing your hands and sterilizing your materials. Next, open a sterile syringe and fill it with about 30mL of saline solution. Gently push the saline solution into the tube, being careful not to force. If you are feeling resistance, pull the syringe out slightly and try again. This cleaning process will keep the catheter working well.