A paraplegic needs help?

Question

hey,
I'm a T6 incomplete paraplegic. I'm about to switch from a foley catheter to an external catheter, but I've heard that a lot of problems can arise when making the switch. Are there any brands that other paraplegics recommend? What's the best ways to avoid problems? thanks!
Sean

Answer 1

By external catheter what exactly do you mean? Are you getting a Urostomy, Stint, etc?

OR, are you talking about a condom catheter?

I really can't answer this question well without knowing exactly what it is, so I'll just give you some general advice.

Firstly, check in with your doctor, or the education specialist at your hospital (assuming there is an education specialist). If you're talking about something that is invasive (requiring surgury), then I would seek out a paraplegic group for advice...you can find one in your area via the net, or if you're just going to contact them via the internet then your only real consideration is of if the brand they are recommending is in your region.

If by external catheter you do in fact mean the condom catheter, I'd recommend shaving around your genitals where hair may get caught on the sticky portion that creates the seal. Also, take special care to clean the bulb, as the urine is very irritating to the skin. As for a particular brand, I'd ask your doctor for some samples if you have a few options. I'm certain there is a great deal of personal preference depending on many factors I may not be aware of.

If you were talking about a stint or stoma then you're going to have to e-mail me or I could be here all day speculating on possibilities.

Take care and if you have any questions lemmie know bro.

Answer 2

* First of all, when the device is initially inserted into the urethra, it can for some be painful and uncomfortable. Along with that can come a burning sensation and sometimes even spasms.
* Second, although a water-filled balloon inside the bladder usually tightly secures the catheter, sometimes the catheter can fall out. This could be a result of using the wrong size catheter.
* With this a third problem can arise- leakage or bypass, which means that urine comes out, but not through the tube.
* Blockage can also occur by using an internal cath as well. Bacteria, mucus or crystallization of protein can cause this.
* Finally, a urinary tract infection can occur from bacteria, leakage or blockage. In fact, UTI is the most common contracted hospital infection.
* Other infections could occur as well as a result of internals over several months.
* More serious results that could come about are bladder stones, blood in the urine, tearing of the urethra.

Answer 3

well to answer other peoples BS. your talking about a catheter that rolls on like a condom. as a caregiver i can tell you that the most important thing is to make sure your catheter fits rite and that your genitals have been cleaned before it is rolled on. make sure your bag is cleaned every night and that the one way valve is on correctly.

Answer 4

as limations are your problem i would go with what is best for long term and movement abilities