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Urinary retention

Intermittent catheterization to empty the bladder

Urinary retention is the inability to completely empty the bladder. Some people have a poor urinary stream with intermittent flow, straining, a sense of incomplete voiding, and hesitancy. This means that there is a delay between the time they try to urinate and the flow actually begins. A possible solution may be intermittent urinary catheterization, done by the patient themselves or another person, such as a nurse or relative. This procedure allows the patient to empty their bladder, and also helps protect their kidneys from damage.

When and why is intermittent catheterization recommended

Self-catheterization for an independent active life

Intermittent self-catheterization is a possible solution for many people affected by urinary neurological dysfunction. Please be aware that intermittent self-catheterization should be carried out only under medical advice and only in accordance with the given instructions.

[1] Lapides J, Diokno AC, Silber SJ, Lowe BS. Clean, Intermittent Self-Catheterization in the Treatment of Urinary Tract Disease. J Urol. 2017 Feb;197(2S):S122-S124. doi: 10.1016/j.juro.2016.10.097. Epub 2016 Dec 21. PMID: 28012758.

[2] Saadat SH, Shepherd S, Van Asseldonk B, Elterman DS. Clean intermittent catheterization: Single use vs. reuse. Can Urol Assoc J. 2019 Feb;13(2):64-69. doi: 10.5489/cuaj.5357. Epub 2018 Jul 31. PMID: 30138101; PMCID: PMC6363567.

[3] Chartier-Kastler E, Chapple C, Schurch B, Saad M. A Real-world Data Analysis of Intermittent Catheterization, Showing the Impact of Prelubricated Versus Hydrophilic Catheter Use on the Occurrence of Symptoms Suggestive of Urinary Tract Infections. Eur Urol Open Sci. 2022 Mar 4;38:79-87. doi: 10.1016/j.euros.2022.02.008. PMID: 35495281; PMCID: PMC9051966. Catheter Care. Guidance for health care professionals. London, UK; Royal College of Nursing. https://www.rcn.org.uk/professionaldevelopment/publications/catheter-care-guidance-for-health-careprofessionals-uk-pub-009-915.