What is a urinary catheter?
A urinary catheter is a thin tube placed in the bladder to drain urine. Urine drains through the tube into a bag that collects the urine. A urinary catheter may be used:
- If you are not able to urinate on your own
- To measure the amount of urine that you make, for example, during intensive care
- During and after some types of surgery
- During some tests of the kidneys and bladder
How do I insert a catheter?
Always consult with your physician on what type of catheter is right for you and the proper insertion techniques.
A catheter can easily be inserted in just a few minutes. If you are new to cathing it is important that you consult with your doctor or medical professional to learn the proper catheter insertion technique.
How long does it take to empty my bladder with a catheter?
This depends on the diameter of the catheter and how much urine needs to be expelled. A few seconds to a minute is normative. It takes a minute or less to lubricate a catheter and insert it.
How will I know that the catheter has entered my bladder?
Urine will start to flow. When the flow stops it is time to remove the catheter.
Can I reuse catheters?
It is possible to wash and reuse catheters, however it can be unhealthy and be a cause of recurring urinary tract infections (UTI’s). The FDA states that all catheters are single-use only devices. Most major insurance companies, including Medicare, recommend sterile use because reusing catheters often leads to infections which costs insurance companies more money.
What does it feel like after I have removed the catheter?
There may be a slight residual urge that will quickly pass. There might be a slight burning sensation. The first time you urinate after having used a catheter there might be a brief mild burning sensation.
How do I get a catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CA-UTI)?
If germs enter the urinary tract, they may cause an infection. Many of the germs that cause a catheter-associated urinary tract infection are common germs found in your intestines that do not usually cause an infection there. Germs can enter the urinary tract when the catheter is being put in or while the catheter remains in the bladder.
What are the symptoms of a urinary tract infection?
Some of the common symptoms of a urinary tract infection are:
- Burning or pain in the lower abdomen (that is, below the stomach)
- Fever & chills
- Strong unpleasant urine odor
- White residue in urine
- Bladder spasms
- Increased Dysreflexia
- Bloody urine may be a sign of infection, but is also caused by other problems
- Burning during urination or an increase in the frequency of urination after the catheter is removed
- Sometimes people with catheter-associated urinary tract infections do not have these symptoms of infection
Can catheter-associated urinary tract infections be treated?
Yes, most catheter-associated urinary tract infections can be treated with antibiotics and removal or change of the catheter. Your doctor will determine which antibiotic is best for you.
How do you protect my personal information?
UTI Medical is a leading mail-order and online catheter supply company. Our company is in full compliance with the latest HIPAA requirements, the federal government regulation that protects ALL patients personal and health related information. UTI MEDICAL is accredited by Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC) for compliance with a comprehensive set of national standards. By choosing a healthcare provider that has achieved ACHC accreditation, you can take comfort in knowing that you will receive the highest quality of care. If you have any concerns about the product or service that you receive from UTI MEDICAL, you may contact ACHC directly at 1-855-937-2242 Toll Free.
How much is shipping and handling charges?
Shipping and handling is completely free when shopping with UTI Medical. We deliver the urological supplies you need directly to your home.
How does the program work?
All we need is your insurance information and your doctor’s name and phone number. We will obtain a prescription from your doctor and validate your insurance company’s catheter coverage. We work with your physician directly to obtain all necessary medical documentation.
Will there be any insurance claims forms to fill out?
No, we will bill your insurance company on your behalf. We take care of all the paperwork with your insurance company so you don’t have to.
How many catheters can I get each month?
Each insurance plan is different. Most insurance including Medicare will cover sterile use (using one catheter and disposing of it each time). Medicare covers a maximum of 200 catheters a month.
Can I change the amount of supplies I get each month?
If your doctor would like to change the amount or the type of catheter supplies that you receive, just give us a call. We will contact the doctor’s office and get a new prescription and the necessary documentation to accommodate any changes.