FOLEY CATHETER NO.14

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• The Foley catheter, specifically size 14, offers a range of benefits for patients requiring urinary drainage. Its primary function is to drain urine from the bladder when an individual is unable to do so naturally. This can be due to various reasons, including urinary retention, obstruction, or the need for accurate monitoring of urine output in critical care settings. The No. 14 size is a common choice, balancing effective drainage with patient comfort.
• One of the key advantages of the Foley catheter is its ability to provide continuous drainage. This is particularly beneficial for patients recovering from surgery, individuals with neurological conditions affecting bladder control, or those with urinary tract obstructions. The catheter's design, featuring a balloon that is inflated within the bladder, ensures that it remains securely in place, minimizing the risk of accidental dislodgement and maintaining consistent urine flow. This continuous drainage helps to prevent bladder distension and associated discomfort or complications.
• Furthermore, the Foley catheter allows for accurate measurement of urine output. This is crucial in managing patients with fluid imbalances, kidney problems, or heart failure. By collecting urine in a drainage bag, healthcare professionals can easily monitor the volume and characteristics of the urine, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding fluid management and medication adjustments. This precise monitoring is essential in optimizing patient care and preventing potentially life-threatening complications.
• The Foley catheter also plays a significant role in promoting patient comfort and hygiene. For individuals who are incontinent or unable to ambulate to the toilet, the catheter provides a convenient and dignified solution for managing urinary drainage. It reduces the risk of skin breakdown and infections associated with prolonged exposure to urine. Proper catheter care, including regular cleaning and maintenance, is essential in preventing complications such as urinary tract infections.
• Beyond these core benefits, the Foley catheter can also be used for specific diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. For instance, it can facilitate bladder irrigation, allowing healthcare providers to administer medications or remove blood clots from the bladder. It can also be used during urodynamic studies to assess bladder function and identify underlying causes of urinary problems. The versatility of the Foley catheter makes it an invaluable tool in various clinical settings, contributing to improved patient outcomes and quality of life. The No. 14 size is often preferred for its balance of drainage efficiency and patient comfort, making it a widely used option.
• In summary, the Foley catheter No. 14 offers a comprehensive solution for urinary drainage, providing continuous and accurate urine output monitoring, promoting patient comfort and hygiene, and facilitating specific diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. Its secure design and ease of use make it an essential tool in managing a wide range of medical conditions affecting urinary function.

• Using a Foley catheter, particularly a size 14, requires careful technique and adherence to sterile procedures to minimize the risk of infection and trauma. Before you begin, gather all necessary supplies, including the Foley catheter kit (containing the catheter, sterile gloves, antiseptic solution, lubricant, syringe with sterile water, and a drainage bag), sterile drapes, and any additional items your healthcare provider recommends. Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water, and put on sterile gloves to maintain sterility throughout the procedure.
• Position the patient comfortably, ensuring adequate exposure of the urethral area. Clean the area with the antiseptic solution provided in the kit, following the manufacturer's instructions. For females, gently separate the labia to expose the urethral opening and clean from front to back. For males, retract the foreskin (if uncircumcised) and clean the glans penis using a circular motion. Maintain sterility throughout the cleaning process.
• Apply a generous amount of lubricant to the catheter tip to ease insertion. Gently insert the catheter into the urethra. In males, hold the penis perpendicular to the body and slowly advance the catheter. You may encounter some resistance at the prostatic urethra; apply gentle, constant pressure until the catheter passes. In females, insert the catheter until urine begins to flow. Once urine is flowing, advance the catheter another inch to ensure the balloon is within the bladder.
• Inflate the balloon with the amount of sterile water specified on the catheter packaging, typically 10cc. After inflation, gently pull back on the catheter until you feel resistance, indicating the balloon is properly seated against the bladder neck. Connect the catheter to the drainage bag, ensuring all connections are secure to prevent leakage. Position the drainage bag below the level of the bladder to facilitate gravity drainage. Secure the catheter to the patient's thigh or abdomen with a catheter strap or tape to prevent accidental dislodgement and reduce urethral irritation.
• Regularly monitor the urine output and observe for any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or cloudy/foul-smelling urine. Ensure the drainage bag is emptied regularly to prevent backflow and maintain proper drainage. When removing the catheter, use a syringe to completely deflate the balloon. Gently and slowly withdraw the catheter. Dispose of the catheter and drainage bag according to your healthcare facility's protocols. Document the procedure, including the catheter size, insertion time, urine output, and any complications encountered.