How to Reuse Catheters

Although catheters may be marked "single-use," according to a report in the Journal of Cardiologie (McGill University), even catheters used in hospitals for blood or heart procedures are reusable if properly sterilized. (See References 1). Urinary catheters, used at home by people who need to perform intermittent self-catheterization due to urinary strictures or other urinary or bladder problems, are reusable after sterilizing with one exception. According to a representative of a company that makes "hydrophilic" type catheters, which have a special external coating for low friction, this type cannot be sterilized and should never be reused. (See References 2)

Things You'll Need

• Resealable freezer bags
• 70 percent isopropyl alcohol
• Covered storage container

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Instructions

• 1

  Use clean tap water to rinse the outside and the inside of the catheters for 30 seconds. Dry the catheters on a paper towel for an hour.

• 2

  Sterilize catheters by putting them in a container with isopropyl alcohol and cover for five minutes. After soaking, do not rinse off the alcohol. Store the catheters in a freezer bag. Rinse off the alcohol when you are ready to use each catheter again.

• 3

  Repeat the above steps if you do not use the catheters within seven days. Replace the alcohol supply once a month.