The Caregiver Guide - Urology Products Can Make it Easier

More often than not, when you take care of an elderly loved one, you will have to deal with incontinence. Incontinence may be the only condition that affects the person or it may be accompanied by dementia. Most dementia patients eventually experience incontinence as they lose control of the bladder or bowel. 

Whether the incontinence is isolated or caused by dementia, caring for the patient is not an easy task. Incontinence strips people of their dignity and, although a lot more is known about the condition, it still carries somewhat of a stigma. Fortunately, to some extent, medical technology advances have led to the invention of a wide range of products that help to control or contain unwanted leaks.

When coming to terms with incontinence for the first time, there are quite a few considerations in trying to decide the best path forward. In some cases, treatment may offer a lasting solution. Treatment options include exercises to strengthen muscles in the pelvic area or slings that support the urethra and provide control over the bladder.

Another option is to manage the condition. Again, there are several choices here. In weighing up the options, it’s a good idea to learn a little about urology. Dealing with incontinence can become messy and awkward, both for you and for your loved one. With the right urology supplies, though, you can keep your care discreet, sanitary, and comfortable for your loved one. At LL Medico, we stock a lot of different types of urology equipment. Below we’ve highlighted some of the equipment that can make your life easier.

Catheters

One of the most common urology products for incontinence is the urinary catheter. They are either internal or external. An internal catheter is a thin, flexible tube that is inserted into the bladder through the urethra. The external device is either a condom-like sheath for men or a funnel or wick-shaped device that is secured over a women’s urethra opening.

Internal catheters may be indwelling for extended use, or intermittent for one-time use. The indwelling type can remain in the urethra for as long as three months whereas the intermittent type is inserted every time the bladder has to be emptied. While the intermittent catheter may cause more discomfort with frequent insertion and removal, the indwelling catheter is sometimes associated with a higher risk of urinary tract infection.

The outer end of the catheter tube may be open-ended or be connected to a urine drainage bag. For open-ended use, the catheter tube is inserted deep into the bladder and the urine is drained directly into a toilet or bedpan.

A urine drainage bag offers a little more flexibility where the patient’s condition allows its use. The bag is generally strapped to the leg and is very discreet under clothing. For overnight use, a larger bag is used which is attached to the bed, The bag can be emptied when it is around half-full or at the convenience of the wearer. Some tubes may have a flow control valve fitted. When opened, the valve allows a constant flow of urine into the bag. When the valve is closed, urine remains in the bladder until it is full.

Urinary Drainage Bags

Thanks to the convenience and flexibility provided by urine drainage bags, these urology products are widely used and many options are available. Broadly speaking, bags are designed for daytime use or overnight use. Daytime bags are attached to the body, usually the leg, and allow you to go about your day completely independently. Night bags have a higher capacity and are attached to the bed.

Daytime bags generally have a capacity ranging from around 350 to 750 ml (15 to 30 ounces). Some manufacturers may offer larger bags, but they become more difficult to hide under clothing. The objective of the day bag is for the patient to be able to manage bathroom breaks according to their lifestyle.  

For overnight use and a capacity to give you eight hours of peace of mind, you need a night-time bag. These bags work similarly to the bags that strap to the leg, but they can hold more liquid and have an anti-leak technology that works specifically for overnight hours or other long periods.

Night bags have a capacity of 2 liters or more. That’s 70 ounces plus.  Considering that a full bladder holds about half a liter, that should take four full voids. However, they can also be connected in tandem to a daytime bag if you need an even higher capacity.

Nowadays, most urine drainage bags are reusable. It’s essential to follow manufacturer recommendations regarding when to empty them and how to properly wash and sanitize them for reuse.  And, of course, common sense will never do any harm.

Urine Leg Bag Holders

Leg bags are usually attached with straps or tape. For active people, there may be a risk that the leg bag shifts or detaches entirely. This is where you need a leg bag holder. It allows you to move around freely and comfortably without worrying about the leg bag becoming dislodged or visible. It also helps to reduce the risk of infection by keeping the leg bag securely in place and preventing it from rubbing against the skin.

Leg bag holders are typically made of lightweight, breathable materials such as cotton or nylon, and are designed to be discreet and comfortable to wear. Looking almost like one-leg pants, they will not shift, whatever you do. They come in a variety of sizes to fit different leg circumferences and can be worn on either the right or left leg.

Urology with LL Medico

There are more and more urology products becoming available all the time. Trying to decide what’s best is really difficult. LL Medico carries a comprehensive range of products that will make it easier for you to care for your loved one. This, of course, includes top-notch urology equipment.

Your convenience and your loved one’s dignity are important to us, which is why we strive to carry only the best. If you need urology equipment to help you in caring for somebody that you love, check out our range of urology supplies today.