Good afternoon
My husband had a catheter fitted on Wednesday. On the whole, he’s not doing too bad. I just have a couple of questions for you. He’s struggling a little bit with the top strap as when we’ve been out. He says it feels like the strap is dropped and he can feel the catheter dragging down. Do you have any tips for this, I’m scared to do it too tight to stop the blood flow . The second question is will there always be urine in the pipe or will that clear at some stage?
thank you
Jane
Hi Jane,
Thanks for getting in touch. I am sorry to hear about your husband having a catheter fitted on the 22 Mar 23, but glad to hear he is doing reasonably well. It’s understandable that you wish to know more about this, as it can help you understand and help to manage.
Unfortunately, we are not directly part of NHS or its services so have no access to any database holding your husband’s medical history within the NHS, so I do not know what type of cancer your husband has.
Many people use indwelling catheters because it’s more convenient. However, living with an indwelling catheter does take time to get used to. Please note, people who use a urinary catheter in the long term are at increased risk of infection. You and you’re your husband should be getting training and help to care for and reduce the threat of infection. This should include support at home. Please discuss with your GP as soon as possible if this is not the case.
Supporting someone gives you an insight how to ask for support at home from your GP if this is not already in place. Toilet cards can also be helpful when your husband is out and about and may need to get to a toilet urgently, see what you think. Helping hands are also an organisation that can also help but charge a fee for this service.
In answer to your specific questions, as stated, it is important that you are given training prior to touching a catheter (due to the infection risk). However, when the upper strap of a catheter starts to drop it can be because of the increase of urinary volume in the bag itself. If able, it is best to try and ensure the bag is regularly emptied which reduces the need to tighten the strap to keep from slipping. There should always be urine in the pipe when a catheter is being used.
It can be challenging supporting someone with cancer Jane, and it is important to look after yourself too. There is further information and support available to you both through our Online Community. There are groups for bladder cancer (if this is appropriate) and family and friends too. If you would like to talk things through, please do get in touch too. The Macmillan Support Line is available free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm).
Best wishes,
Kenny, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.
Ref/
KD/DT
