The Effects of Catheters

Catheters are used for a number of reasons, but the main reason is to drain various fluids from the body. Soft catheters are thin and flexible, whereas larger, solid tubes are called hard catheters. With the use of catheters, come possible side effects.

Cardiac Catheterization

• The purpose of cardiac catheterization is to gain information about the condition of your heart and decide if you require interventional procedures or surgery. One of these procedures is known as radiofrequency (RF) ablation. Side effects may result from digital fluoroscopy, used to provide a real time image on the monitor. The effect of this procedure is the loss of tissue function where the procedure occurred. In addition, skin erythema and ulceration, which are types of burns at the exposure site, can increase in severity as the amount of time of skin exposure increases. The most serious cases require skin grafting.

Urethral Catheterization

• Urethral catheterization drains urine from the bladder to a urinary bag placed outside the body; this is done by inserting a catheter into the urethra. This is used if you suffer from urinary incontinence, urinary retention, prostate or gynecological surgery, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury or dementia. The three methods for urethral catheterization are indwelling (long-term), condom and intermittent (short-term). Side effects can include sensitivity to latex, bladder stones, kidney damage or blood in the urine (hemateria).

Caring for a Catheter

• There are ways to minimize side effects resulting from catheters. Cleaning the area where the catheter is inserted with soap and water daily is a must. For urethral catheters, the area needs to be cleaned every time you have a bowel movement to reduce infections. Suprapubic catheters need to be covered with gauze after the patient has cleansed it. Patients should drink plenty of fluids daily. Prior to handling the drainage device, your hands need to be thoroughly washed.