Home catheterization (insertion and replacement) services are a highly comfortable and safe healthcare solution for patients experiencing urinary tract problems and requiring long-term catheterization. At Magnet Hospital, we provide professional care to our patients with our catheterization, removal, and replacement services, enabling them to carry out their daily lives more comfortably and safely.

What is Home Catheterization Service?

Home catheterization is a procedure performed by specialized nurses or healthcare professionals in the homes of patients who are unable to pass urine. A catheter is a thin tube inserted into the bladder that allows urine to be expelled . This procedure can be performed conveniently at home, eliminating the need for a hospital visit.

Why is a catheter inserted?

A urinary catheter is inserted when urine cannot be drained properly due to various health problems. Here are some of the reasons for inserting a catheter:

Bladder Emptying Problems

• If the bladder is unable to empty urine normally, urine accumulation in the body can be harmful. In this case, a catheter is inserted to drain the urine.
• Urine Accumulation (Urinary Retention)
• Urine accumulation in the bladder (retention) can occur for a variety of reasons, such as:
• Neurological diseases (e.g., stroke or Parkinson's disease)
• Prostate enlargement or prostate cancer
• Weakening of the bladder muscles
• Loss of urinary control after injuries or surgical interventions

Postoperative Urine Monitoring

• Some surgical procedures can cause patients to temporarily lose bladder function. A catheter ensures proper urine excretion during the healing process.
• Preventing Urinary Tract Infections
• In some cases, a catheter may be inserted to treat or prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). It can be used to reduce the risk of urinary tract infections during prolonged illnesses or immobilization.
• Kidney Function Problems
• When there are problems in communication between the kidneys and the urinary tract, for example in case of kidney failure, a catheter can be inserted to drain the urine.
• Old Age and Mobility Difficulty
• Elderly patients may have difficulty going to the toilet due to mobility issues . In these cases, a catheter can be inserted to ensure regular drainage of urine.

How is the catheter inserted?

Catheterization is a procedure that must be performed carefully and hygienically by qualified healthcare professionals. The procedure is performed under sterile conditions and includes the following steps:

Preparation

• Sterile Materials: All necessary materials such as sterilized catheters, antiseptic solutions, gloves, sterile drapes and urine bags are prepared for the catheter insertion process.
• Patient Position: The patient is positioned supine. For women, the legs are slightly apart, while for men, the supine position is preferred. This position facilitates catheter insertion.

Cleaning Hands

• The healthcare professional washes his or her hands properly and wears sterile gloves.

Antiseptic Application

• The catheter insertion site (the vagina in women and the urethra in men) is cleaned with an antiseptic solution. This step minimizes the risk of infection.

Insertion of the Probe

• In women: The catheter is carefully inserted through the urethra at the top of the vagina and into the bladder. Because the urethra is short, the procedure is quick.
• For men: The catheter is inserted through the head of the penis into the urethra (urethra). Because men have longer urethras than women, the procedure may take slightly longer.
• The catheter is carefully pushed forward until it reaches the bladder. Once there, urine should begin to flow.

Fixing the Probe

• Once the catheter is in place, proper urine drainage is ensured. The catheter is secured and connected to the bladder to allow urine to drain out .
• The bladder should be kept below the patient's body level. This prevents urine backflow and ensures a hygienic environment.

Control and Cleaning

• After the catheter is inserted, the patient is checked for comfort. After the procedure, the urine flow is monitored to check for any blockages, pain, or problems.
• Once the procedure is completed, the used materials are disposed of appropriately and the patient's surroundings are cleaned.

Patient Education

• If a patient will have a long-term catheter inserted, the nurse or healthcare professional should educate the patient on catheter care and hygienic use. This is important to reduce the risk of infection.

Who is the Probe Suitable For?

Home catheterization service is suitable for patients who:

• If you have bladder problems or an inability to empty urine properly.
• Those who lose urinary control due to neurological diseases (paralysis, Parkinson's disease, etc.).
• Patients who need to use a catheter after surgery or as a result of long-term illnesses.
• Elderly individuals, people who have difficulty going to the hospital.

Probe Replacement and Renewal

A urinary catheter ( or catheter ) poses risks when left in the body for a period of time, and therefore, it must be replaced regularly. Patients using an indwelling catheter typically have routine changes every 3-4 weeks (as recommended by their doctor).

What are the Reasons for Urinary Catheter Replacement?

• Reducing the Risk of Infection
• Preventing Clogging
• Bubble Breakdown
• Irritation or Pain
• Periodic Change (Routine)
• Urine Leakage or Leakage

What are the Types of Probes?

Various types of catheters are available to address different health issues. Each type serves a specific therapeutic purpose and varies in length of use and shape. The most commonly used catheters are as follows.

Foley Catheter: The Foley catheter is the most commonly used type of catheter. It is inserted into the bladder and allows urine to be expelled. Once the tip reaches the bladder, an inflated balloon secures it in place.

Intermittent Catheter (Repeated Use): This type of catheter is used temporarily and allows the catheter to be removed while the patient is urinating. A new catheter is inserted for each use.

Continuous Urinary Catheter: Description: This type of catheter is inserted and secured to the patient's bladder to provide a continuous flow of urine. The catheter allows for the continuous expulsion of urine.

Suprapubic Catheter: This catheter is inserted into the bladder through a small incision made in the abdomen. This catheter allows urine to be expelled and is different from catheters inserted through the urethra.

Double-Lumen Catheter: A double-lumen catheter contains two separate tubes. The first tube allows urine to exit the bladder, while the second tube continuously cleans and drains fluids from the bladder.

Triple Lumen Catheter: The triple lumen catheter contains three separate tubes.

• A tube allows urine to be drained.
• The other tube is used to administer medication or add fluid to the bladder.
• The third tube is used to flush or clean the bladder.

Urethral Catheter: A urethral catheter is inserted into the bladder through the urinary tract (urethra) and is suitable for short-term use.

Nelaton Catheter: The Nelaton catheter is a straight catheter designed for short-term use. This type of catheter is used only for urine drainage.

Pezzer Catheter: A Pezzer catheter is inserted into the bladder and is suitable for long-term use. This type of catheter allows continuous urine flow and, unlike other catheters, has a wider diameter.

 Indwelling Catheter: An indwelling catheter is a catheter that is placed for a long time and provides continuous urine drainage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is a urinary catheter inserted?

It is inserted for reasons such as inability to urinate, post-operative care, paralysis, monitoring of urine volume, or urinary tract obstruction.

Is catheter insertion painful?

You may experience some minor discomfort, but it's not a serious pain. A lubricating gel makes the procedure more comfortable.

How long can the probe stay in?

Temporary catheters can stay in place for a few hours to a few days. Permanent catheters are usually changed every 3 to 4 weeks.

Can I take a bath with a catheter?

Showering while standing is generally appropriate. However, the catheter insertion site should be kept dry and clean, and prolonged exposure to water should be avoided.

Is it possible to have sexual intercourse while the catheter is in place?

This varies depending on the situation and the type of catheter. It is not recommended in most cases; consultation with a doctor is recommended.

What happens if the catheter gets blocked?

If urine flow stops, the bag doesn't fill, or leaks occur, the catheter should be replaced. Do not attempt any intervention yourself; contact your healthcare professional.

What should be done if the catheter is dislodged?

It must be reinserted. Intervention in the first hours is crucial, and a healthcare provider should be contacted without delay.

Does the catheter cause infection?

It can. Therefore, hygiene rules should be followed, the area around the catheter should be kept clean, and it should be changed at regular intervals.

Is it possible to move with the probe?

Yes. If the catheter bag is secured, the person can walk or sit, but the bag must be kept down to ensure smooth flow.

What should be done if the probe causes pain?

If there is persistent pain or discomfort, catheter placement may not be appropriate and a healthcare professional should be consulted.

Can the urinary tract be damaged while the catheter is inserted?

Yes, if inserted incorrectly, the urethra can be damaged. Therefore, the procedure must be performed by healthcare professionals and under sterile conditions.

What should be done when the bladder is full?

The bag should be emptied when it is no more than 3/4 full. If it remains full, reflux will occur and the risk of infection will increase.

How should the urine bag be used at night?

The night bag should be larger and secured in place so it doesn't sag in the bed. It should be positioned so it doesn't obstruct the flow of air while sleeping.

Is the smell of the catheter normal?

A foul odor could be a sign of infection. Normally, urine has a mild odor, but if it smells strong or foul, it should be checked.

Is it a problem if I become constipated while the catheter is in place?

Constipation can affect the position of the catheter and put pressure on it. Therefore, attention should be paid to diet and constipation should be avoided.

Can the catheter bag be hidden in the bag?

Yes, special catheter bag bags or bags that are fixed inside the trousers are available and can be preferred for comfortable and discreet use.

How to care for a catheter at home?

The catheter entry site should be cleaned every day, the bag should be emptied regularly, and no procedures should be performed without washing hands.

What happens if the probe balloon bursts?

If the balloon is deflated, the catheter may fall out. It is rare for the balloon to burst and should be reinserted.

What should I do if there is a change in urine color?

If your urine is dark, bloody, or has a foul odor, this could be a sign of an infection or other condition. Consult your healthcare professional.

Home Catheterization Service and Magnet Hospital

Magnet Hospital offers home catheterization services that combine high healthcare standards with professional service. Our experienced home health team guides you through the catheterization process and provides our patients with the knowledge and support they need to make the procedure more comfortable.

You can call the contact line at 0 312 212 80 80 immediately to get information about the catheterization price and catheterization service .

April 2025