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Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2023-02-08 Origin: Site
Unlike internal catheters, which are placed inside the body, external catheters are applied outside of the body. They are used primarily for urine collection in men who experience urinary incontinence. Generally, an external catheter features an open tube at the distal part of the device, which then connects and directs urine into a collection device.
External catheters are generally considered to be a more comfortable and convenient option for those who experience urinary incontinence. They are easy to use, provide more control over urinary flow and are less likely to cause irritation or infection. In addition, external catheters provide greater freedom of movement.
Read on to learn more about External catheters and their benefits.
How to Choose the Right Size Catheter?
What Are the Benefits of External Catheters?
How To Apply an External Catheter?
What Are the Risks of External Catheters?
The external or condom catheters consist of a flexible sheath that slides over the penis just like a condom. They are used primarily for urine collection in men who experience urinary incontinence.
External catheters are designed for men whose bladders can drain urine but who have trouble controlling when it’s released. Users apply the External catheter on the outside of the penis and connect it to a leg bag or beside a drainage bag to collect urine.
The material used to make these catheters is either silicone or latex.
Latex: External condom catheters made of latex are very soft and flexible; their Flexible nature makes it easy to roll on the penis.
Silicone: Silicone external catheters are made of breathable and translucent silicone material; A great alternative for latex allergies.
Picture 1: Latex External Catheter Picture 2: Sillcone External Catheter
The two categories of external male catheters are self-adhesive and non-adhesive.
Self-Adhesive: Self-adhesive catheters will adhere to the skin by just lightly pressing on.
Non-Adhesive: With non-adhesive catheters is smooth on the inside, has no adhesive on the sheath, and will have to use an adhesive product to secure it with the skin.
Male external catheters are sized in millimeters (mm), and available in standard length with four size ranges – each with a unique application collar.
Four sizes are available:
•22 mm – 25 mm
•26 mm – 30 mm
•31 mm – 35 mm
•36 mm – 39 mm
To determine the right size, the patient is recommended to measure the circumference (in millimeters) of the penis at its widest point. Divide the result by 3.14 (Pi). For example, the circumference of a penile shaft is 110mm, so the result will be 110/3.14=35mm.
Condom catheters have several benefits over internal catheters.
•Cause fewer catheter-associated urinary tract infections.
•Cause less movement restriction.
•Increased safety and comfort.
•Non-invasive.
•Can be used by non-medical professionals at home.
1. Clean the penis with soap and water and dry thoroughly.
2. Grasp the penis along the shaft, hold the condom catheter at the tip of the penis, and smoothly roll the condom onto it. Allow a 1-2 inches small gap between the tip of the penis and the condom catheter to ensure that the end of the catheter isn’t touching the tip of the penis.
3. After, gently squeeze along the shaft of the penis to secure the adhesive for 10-15 seconds.
4. Connect the tubing on the collection bag to the condom.
Consult your caregiver or medical professional if you have trouble applying your external catheter.
1. Clean hands with soap and water.
2. Wrap a warm washcloth around the penis for a minute to help weaken the adhesive for easier removal.
3. Never pull the catheter off. Gently roll it off the penis.
4. Once removed, dispose of it per hospital policy.
Risks of external catheters include:
•Urine leakage.
•Skin conditions that range from mild irritation to necrosis (tissue death).
•Urinary tract infections.
1. Always choose external catheters that are the correct size.
2. External catheters need to be changed/cleaned daily.
3. Practice good hygiene. Always wash your hands and penis when putting the external catheter on or emptying the collection bag.
4. Remove the condom catheter, which can be used with warm water or an adhesive remover to ease removal.
Disclaimer: All content found on our website, including images, videos, infographics, and text was created solely for informational purposes only and does not take the place of medical guidance provided by your physician. No information on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We urge all our customers to always consult a physician or a certified medical professional before trying or using a new medical product.
