What causes a Catheter-Associated UTI?
A catheter is a device which helps empty the bladder, if a person is unable to do it on their own. Sometimes, a catheter provides the pathway for the germs and bacteria from outside to invade the urinary system
A person might need a catheter if they are unable to control how their bladder functions, had an accident or had surgery. Sometimes, a catheter is used to also monitor the amount of urine your kidneys are producing.
Can a catheter cause a UTI?
Yes. CAUTI infections are caused by indwelling catheters. In indwelling catheters, a narrow, hollow tube is inserted into your urethra. It collects the urine from the system and lets it into a bag that is drained out later.
A catheter-associated UTI (CAUTI) is one of the most common infections one might contract during their stay in the hospital.
What Are the Signs and symptoms of CAUTI?
Catheter infection symptoms can seem similar to the signs and symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI). These include:
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cloudy urine or blood in the urine
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really strong- smelling urine
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urine leakage even after using a catheter
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pressure, pain, or discomfort in your lower back or stomach
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chills and fever
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fatigue
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vomiting and nausea
How Is a Catheter UTI Diagnosed?
If your doctor suspects you might have a catheter urinary infection, the first thing they're going to do is a urine test. Urinalysis checks for blood in your urine, presence of which might indicate an infection.
A urine culture test is used to check for any bacteria or fungi in your urine.
You might get an infection sometimes because of urine retention in your bladder. Sometimes, your bladder doesn’t move urine out of your body quickly enough. This can happen even with a catheter. In such situations, ultrasound scans are recommended.
How Is a Catheter-Associated UTI Treated?
It is generally harder to treat CAUTIs. If catheter UTI treatment is not sought immediately, the infection could reach your kidneys, causing long-term damage. Your doctor is likely to:
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Prescribe oral antibiotics to get rid of any bacteria and germs.
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Recommend upping your fluid intake to help flush out bacteria from your body.
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Keep you in the hospital under their watchful care in cases that have reached a critical level.
How Can Catheter-Associated UTI Be Prevented?
Your doctor will consider if a catheter is really needed for your particular health condition. They will also recommend not using a catheter for longer than it is needed.
Additionally, here's a few other things you can do for CAUTI prevention:
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clean and wipe around the catheter.
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clean the skin around the catheter every day to keep it bacteria and germs free.
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drain the urine collection bag several times in a day.
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keep the catheter tube from twisting or curling which might lead to blockages.
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cleaning and sanitizing your hands before and after touching in and around the catheter or the skin.
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changing the catheter at least once every month to avoid infections.
Avoiding catheters altogether and making the switch to adult diapers if you're suffering from urine leakage or frequent urination can make a big difference. Diapers today are even recommended by doctors because gone are the days of infections from poorly-built, non-absorbent, ill-fitting diapers.
Friends Adult Diapers can help you lead a healthier life. We have been making adult diapers for more than two decades now. We understand exactly what you need: diapers that are super-absorbent, don't give you infections, rashes or irritated skin and fit you well. Our diapers:
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Are anti-bacterial
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Provide superior absorption for up to 16 hours depending on the variant.
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Fit your body snugly to prevent leaks or spills.
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Are treated with aloe vera and jojoba extracts to keep your skin supple and soft.
With Friends Adult Diapers, Azadi Mubarak!
