Are you newly adjusting to life after a spinal cord injury? Whether due to a medical condition, accident, or unexpected illness, we understand that this transition to life in a wheelchair can be jarring. Closed system catheters could be a helpful addition to your bladder management routine.
Our founder, Todd Brown, experienced this first-hand after his motocross accident, which left him paralyzed from the chest down. It took time for him to fully adjust to all the changes that came with being a new paraplegic, including struggles with frequent urinary tract infections at first. This can be common for those new to using catheters since improper use (such as washing and reusing catheters) can lead to UTIs.
Closed System Catheters May Help Those Adjusting to Life in a Wheelchair
If UTIs are something you’ve struggled with or want to prevent, consider the following:
1. Talk to your doctor.
Your doctor will be the best person to discuss any infections or illnesses, and they can come up with the right treatment plan based on your individual needs.
2. Never reuse your catheters.
The FDA has determined that catheters are single-use devices, so be sure to use a catheter only once and then dispose of it, which can help you to avoid potential UTIs.
3. Make sure you’re using your catheter properly.
Understanding how to properly catheterize will not only help lower the risk of UTIs but will also help you avoid unnecessary irritation. If you choose 180 Medical for your catheter supply needs, we can go over the process with you step-by-step, and we also provide instructional materials such as a detailed DVD and helpful booklets to provide you with the right education you need to get adjusted to your catheter insertion kit.
An important part of Todd’s journey away from those frequent UTIs was learning about closed system catheters and their potential benefits for those in wheelchairs.
Parts of a Closed System Catheter and Their Benefits
A closed system catheter can be a great solution for reducing the likelihood of UTIs for new catheter users. Not only does it provide everything in one easy-to-carry package, it also has specific features that can help you out with preventing UTIs as well as remaining in your wheelchair while catheterizing.
- Introducer Tip: This pre-lubricated tip on intermittent urinary catheters allows the users to bypass the first few millimeters of the urethra where the largest concentrations of bacteria are located.
- Insertion Supplies: Closed system catheters often provide extra supplies that can help with the insertion process, such as sterile gloves (especially handy when cathing in public restrooms), antiseptic wipes to sterilize the area where you will insert the catheter, underpad, and more.
- Ease of use while in a wheelchair: Because a closed system catheter is completely self-contained in a measurable bag, users can remain in their wheelchair, rather than attempt to transfer from chair to toilet every time. Also, any room that allows you privacy can become a place to self-cath.
Want to See How Closed System Catheters Can Help If You’re in a Wheelchair?
180 Medical makes sure to train our staff well in order to earn the title “Specialist.” That’s why you can feel confident giving us a call when you’re ready to begin ordering your catheter supplies.
Not only do we offer helpful materials and treat you like a member of our own family, but we also have a few members of our staff who have personal experience adjusting to life in a wheelchair and using catheters daily. Give us a call today to see if closed system catheters could be right for you, and get one step closer to living more comfortably.
