Adjusting to life with a catheter can be challenging, but with the right tools and resources, you can feel comfortable and confident using your catheter. Whether you have a short- or long-term catheter, there will be an adjustment period in the beginning, and we have shared with you a few practical tips and tricks to make the process easier!  

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help  

Adjusting to your new life with a catheter can be emotionally challenging and it is important to not be afraid to ask for help and support. Seek support from family members, friends, or even support groups to make this transition easier.  

Always Be Prepared 

Ensure that you always have extra supplies with you when going places, including extra clothes, drainage bags, disposable gloves, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes. This will help you feel less stressed and more confident as you are running errands or attending events with your catheter.  

Prioritize Hydration  

Staying hydrated is crucial in flushing out bacteria to prevent infections and reduce overall discomfort associated with catheters. Try to avoid caffeine, alcohol, and acidic juices that can be irritating to your bladder.  

Eat a Fiber-Rich Diet 

Constipation can cause added discomfort with your catheter, so to prevent constipation, try to incorporate a lot of fiber-rich foods, such as whole grains, fruit, and vegetables into your diet.  

Ensure That You are Changing Your Catheter as Directed 

It is crucial to change your catheter as often as directed by your doctor. You can run into complications when your catheter is changed too often or not enough.  

Maintain Good Hygiene  

Maintaining good hygiene, including always washing your hands before and after handling your catheter and supplies, and keeping your catheter insertion site clean and dry, can help prevent infections.  

Choose Comfortable Clothing

It can be helpful to wear comfortable, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing because tight clothing can sometimes cause discomfort due to the added pressure on the catheter. Wearing catheter-friendly clothing can also help with carrying your catheter discretely.  

Always Secure Catheter Tubing

To prevent accidental dislodging of the catheter, ensure that you always secure the catheter tubing. This can be done with a catheter holder or medical tape.  

Be Patient and Never Use Force

With self-catheterization, it is important to be patient if you are feeling frustrated and never use force. Using force can lead to injuries and can damage your catheter equipment.  

Be Cautious of Warning Signs

Be sure to regularly check for any signs and symptoms of complications and infections. If you are experiencing symptoms such as blood in the urine, extreme pain, or fever, please contact your doctor as soon as possible.  

If you are new to using a catheter, it is normal to feel overwhelmed. We hope that with these helpful tips and tricks, the adjustment period will be a little easier as you embark on this new journey. Our team at Piedmont Medical understands the challenges and we are here to support you. If you have any questions, please contact us.