Introduction To Bard Catheters

The bard catheter is something that allows a patient to catheterize both discretely and easily. There are bard catheters that are made of non-latex and latex materials so that their catheters can be used by just about anyone. Here is some information about this catheter so that you can become familiar with it.

Preparing to use the Catheter

Before using your catheter, you have to gather the equipment that you need and prepare the area where it will be inserted. You’re going to need the catheter, the bag, the strap, the lubricant that is sterile, the syringe for irrigation, and the cleansing solution for your genitals. Other things you might want to have are medical tape, sterile globes, paper towels, and antibacterial soap.

Using Your Catheter

Before you insert your catheter, thoroughly clean your hands using warm water and antibacterial soap. Then dry your hands and put on the sterile gloves, then open either your catheterization kit or catheter. Fill the syringe with 10 cc of nice, clean water. Put a couple of inches of your sterile lubricants at your catheter’s tip. Find a sitting position that is comfortable and that lets you spread your legs. After you’re comfortable, you’ll be inserting your catheter. Start out by cleaning your genital area using the cleansing solution, and then gently and slowly put the catheter into the urethra. Then you want to inject your 10 cc of the liquid into your small tube at your catheter’s drainage end. This will inflate that balloon at the tip of the catheter. After the balloon is inflated, it’s going to keep the catheter in place. It’s also possible to use some medical tape to secure it to your body if you are concerned that it’s not going to stay there. Attach your bag to your other catheter’s other end and use the strap to secure it to your leg.

Intake of Fluid

If you have to use a catheter, you should take in more fluid so that your urine is diluted and your catheter drains well. It’s a good idea that you drink an extra eight ounces each 2-3 hours. It’s also a good idea to avoid irritants, like caffeine and alcohol.

These are the things that you should remember when you are using a bard catheter. It feels a little strange at first, but soon you won’t think much about it being there and it will become a part of your life.