Bladder problems are much more common than you would expect. There are lots of men, women and children who have such a problem and use Intermittent Self Catheterisation (ISC) as a way to help them lead a normal life.
Intermittent Self Catheterisation for Men leaflet
Reasons for needing ISC
There might be a number of reasons why you are now unable to empty your bladder, these should have been fully explained to you by your healthcare professional. Intermittent self-catheterisation is the temporary insertion of a catheter (tube) into the bladder to remove urine from the body. This is usually done by inserting the catheter through the urethra (the tube that leads from the bladder to the outside opening) to empty the bladder at regular intervals. It is a very simple thing to do and after a little practice can be done in just a few minutes. Your Specialist Nurse will be able to teach you how to self-catheterise, how often and help you make an informed choice of which type of catheter is suited to your needs.
Advantages of ISC
The key advantage of performing ISC is convenience, allowing you to manage your bladder at times and places that suit you, giving you back more control of your life. Performing ISC empties the bladder very efficiently, preventing small residues of urine remaining and as a result not only protects the bladder but also reduces the chances of infection spreading to the kidneys and the associated complications. Emptying the bladder properly using ISC will end
the feeling that you may have to visit the toilet frequently and also reduces the likelihood of urine leakage.
Anatomy
To perform ISC you will need to know some basics about the urinary system.
The kidneys extract soluble waste products from the blood and this becomes your urine, they perform this process continuously, 24 hours a day. The urine passes to the bladder through a small tube called a ureter. There is one ureter connecting each kidney to the bladder. After passing along the ureter, the urine arrives at the bladder where it is stored. The bladder is filling continuously. As it enlarges, the urge to empty increases. This is when you feel the need to go to the toilet, where muscles will allow the urine to pass out of the bladder into the urethra, and away from the body.
Catheter Types
There are a number of different types of catheter available. All perform the same basic function of draining the bladder, but as we are all individuals, you may find that one catheter suits you better than another. Your Specialist Nurse will advise you on the choice available and the one that best suits your needs. Catheters can be of 3 basic types that are lubricated in different ways:
A plain nelaton catheter which is lubricated with a water soluble gel. This type of catheter can be re-used for up to 5 days.
Hydrophilic – these catheters have a special coating that is activated after being immersed in water for around 30 seconds. They are often packaged with a small sachet of sterile water that is used for this purpose, reducing the risk of bacteria coming into contact with catheter itself.
These are for single use only.
Pre-lubricated – these catheters have a gel coating already active on the catheter and are ready for immediate use. Again these are for single use only.
Many catheters are also available with a urine collection bag attached. This may be useful for you if you do not have a great deal of dexterity and find holding the catheter difficult.
Basic hygiene
With ISC it is essential that a clean procedure is used. The main benefit of using ISC is that it reduces the likelihood of infection compared to indwelling catheters but this is only the case if good hygiene habits are maintained.
Wash your hands (soap and water is fine, but an antibacterial hand gel can be used instead; this maybe especially useful if you are away from home, using a public toilet etc).
Wash your penis thoroughly. Mild soap and water is all that is required. Dry with a clean towel.
Do not touch anything else apart from your catheter.
Performing ISC
The information provided here is intended as follow up advice to support that given to you by your Specialist Nurse.
Always follow the advice you have been given by the nurse.
Insertion and removal procedure
Ensure that you have followed the cleaning and washing routine.
Lubricate the catheter following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Pull back the foreskin (if you have one) and hold your penis up towards your tummy with one hand.
Insert the catheter with the other hand, being careful not to touch the end that is to enter the bladder.
If it is more difficult to insert as it gets nearer the bladder, cough slightly and continue to insert gently. If there is continued resistance withdraw and try again a little later.
When the catheter reaches the bladder, ensure that the open end of the catheter is pointed towards the toilet, a bowl or jug as it will begin to drain immediately it enters the bladder. Hold the catheter still and allow bladder to empty.
Slowly withdraw the catheter and pull the foreskin back down.
Dispose of the catheter (or clean thoroughly if you have a reusable one).
Look at the colour of your urine and note any change of colour or smell. This will indicate any problems with infection or if you are not drinking enough fluids.
Wash your hands.
IMPORTANT
YOU MUST REMOVE THE CATHETER AFTER DRAINING YOUR BLADDER,
IT MUST NOT BE LEFT IN PLACE
Travel Implications
Using ISC should not affect your ability to lead a normal life and that includes travel. You can still fly and visit destinations at home and abroad just like anyone else.
Depending on the length of your journey, take enough catheters with you in your hand baggage.
You should take some antibacterial gel or wipes when travelling to allow you to clean your hands and penis as not all toilets on your journey will have soap and running water.
Do not tightly coil your catheters as this can cause them to block. Some catheters can be loosely coiled for a short period, but this should be as short as possible – follow your manufacturer’s recommendations. Keep your catheters in a cool, dry place as excessive heat over a prolonged period may cause the lubricating gel to dry out.
If you need any help or advice, please contact our Customer Care Team:
National: 0800 378 846
Scotland: 0800 783 7148
