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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
External Catheters
Introduction
External catheters are non-invasive devices used to manage urinary incontinence or urinary retention without the need for insertion into the urethra, reducing the risk of infections such as catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs).
Types of External Catheters
- Male External Catheters (Condom Catheters): These are designed like a sheath that fits over the penis, directing urine into a drainage bag.
- Female External Catheters: These use a soft, absorbent material placed between the labia or in close contact with the urethral opening to collect urine without insertion.
- Pediatric External Catheters: Specially designed for children who need non-invasive urinary management.
Indications for Use
- Patients with urinary incontinence
- Those at high risk for catheter-associated infections
- Post-surgical recovery patients
- Individuals with neurological conditions affecting bladder control
Advantages
✅ Lower risk of urinary tract infections compared to indwelling catheters ✅ More comfortable for long-term use ✅ Easier application and removal
Disadvantages
❌ Potential for skin irritation and pressure ulcers ❌ Risk of leakage if improperly fitted
Care and Maintenance
- Ensure proper hygiene and skin care to prevent irritation
- Regularly check for leaks or signs of skin damage
- Properly secure the catheter to prevent dislodgment
Conclusion
External catheters are a practical solution for non-invasive urinary management, offering advantages over traditional indwelling catheters in terms of infection control and comfort. However, careful selection, fitting, and hygiene are crucial to prevent complications.
Source recommendations
1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Guidelines for Prevention of Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections
- https://www.cdc.gov/infection-control/hcp/cauti/index.html
- https://stacks.cdc.gov/view/cdc/49910
- https://www.cdc.gov/infection-control/hcp/cauti/summary-of-recommendations.html
- https://archive.cdc.gov/www_cdc_gov/hai/data/archive/2020-HAI-progress-report.html
- https://www.cdc.gov/uti/hcp/clinical-safety/index.html
2. European Association of Urology (EAU) Guidelines on Urinary Incontinence
- https://uroweb.org/eau-guidelines/discontinued-topics/urinary-incontinence
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21130559/
- https://uroweb.org/guidelines/non-neurogenic-female-luts
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29398262/
- https://www.europeanurology.com/article/S0302-2838(18)30002-2/fulltext
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
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We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.