A Foley catheter consists of a soft and flexible tube with a small balloon at the end. Once the catheter is positioned in the bladder, the balloon is inflated with water or a special solution to keep the catheter in place and prevent it from accidentally exiting the bladder. The other end of the catheter is connected to a urine bag, where urine is continuously drained, allowing the patient or medical staff to measure the amount of urine.
Foley catheters are classified based on material, number of lumens, and size:
By number of lumens:
Single-lumen: Used only for draining urine and is commonly used in short-term situations.
Double-lumen: The most common type of Foley catheter, with one lumen for urine drainage and another for inflating the balloon.
Triple-lumen: In addition to urine drainage and balloon inflation, this type includes a third lumen for bladder irrigation, often used during surgeries requiring continuous bladder washing.
By material:
Latex: Very flexible and soft but may cause allergies in some patients.
Silicone: More durable and suitable for long-term use, especially for patients allergic to latex.
By size: Foley catheters come in a range of sizes based on the tube’s diameter, measured in French (Fr), typically between 6 to 24 Fr. Smaller sizes are used for children, while larger sizes are chosen for adults and special cases. The appropriate size is selected based on the patient’s condition and the volume of urine drainage needed.
Foley catheters are used in cases such as urinary retention, major surgeries, care for hospitalized patients, and conditions requiring precise monitoring of urine volume. They are also useful for patients with mobility restrictions or urinary incontinence, improving their quality of life.
With its variety of sizes and materials, the Foley catheter is an essential tool in medical care, enabling healthcare providers to efficiently and accurately care for patients.
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