The hydrophilic coating is designed to reduce the friction, as the catheter is inserted with the intention of reducing the risk of urethral damage. It has been suggested that because the hydrophilic catheters do not require manual lubrication they are more sterile and thus less likely to cause infection.

Using the insertion sleeve to hold the catheter firmly gently pass the tip of the catheter into your urethra. Until the insertion sleeve nearest the urethral opening repeat until urine starts to flow.

Around your index finger. And squeeze. Then let the water run down into the package let the catheter soak and sterile water for 15 seconds for the hydrophilic coating to fully activate.

• Bard.
• Coloplast.
• Covidien.
• Cure.
• GentleCath.
• Hi-Slip.
• Hollister.
• Kendall.

Hydrophilic catheters have a specific polymer that reacts with water, increasing the degree of comfort during catheter insertion. Once removed, the coating often comes off and therefore, trying to reuse it can be painful.

There are 3 main types of catheters:

• Indwelling catheter.
• Condom catheter.
• Intermittent self-catheter.

Three way catheters have three channels: one for inflation of the balloon, one for urine drainage and one for connection of irrigation fluid. After a TURP/TURBT, the 3rd channel may be spigotted or connected to continuous irrigation.

Continuous bladder irrigation The three‑way catheter allows fluid to flow into and out of the bladder simultaneously. A large gauge IUC is used to allow for drainage of clots and debris. The use of 0.9% sodium chloride (normal saline) is recommended. Use sterile equipment and aseptic technique.

water-loving A hydrophilic coating is a coating that has an affinity for water. The term hydrophilic means "water-loving," therefore, these types of coatings tend to attract water rather than repel it.

The pre-lubricated coating absorbs and binds water to the hydrophilic catheter, resulting in a thick, smooth, and slippery surface. The hydrophilic catheter coating layer remains intact upon introduction into the urethra and ensures lubrication of the urethra in its entire length.

Catheter Brands

AmeriSourceBergen In the online medical supplies world, AmeriSource is the largest medical distributor, serving approx 10.5 million patients per year. They ensure that medical equipment and supplies reach everyone in need in more than 75 countries.

While the number of times that a UC catheter was used before being discarded is not clear in this study, the authors stated, “In our practice, uncoated catheters are 'one-time' use only and patients are never advised to wash and reuse their catheters.”