Foley Catheters: Uses, Types, Procedure, and Care
A Foley catheter is a flexible medical tube designed to drain urine from the bladder and is commonly used when a patient is unable to urinate naturally. It is one of the most widely used urinary catheters in hospitals, clinics, and home healthcare settings. The device is inserted through the urethra into the bladder, where a small balloon is inflated with sterile water to keep it in place.
What is a Foley Catheter?
A Foley catheter is an indwelling urinary catheter that remains in the bladder for a period of time. It is named after Dr. Frederic Foley, who introduced the design. The catheter allows continuous urine drainage into a collection bag, helping manage urinary retention and monitoring urine output in critically ill patients.
Common Uses of Foley Catheters
Foley catheters are used in various medical situations, including:
Urinary retention due to obstruction or nerve-related conditions
During and after surgical procedures
In patients with severe mobility limitations
To accurately measure urine output in critically ill patients
For bladder irrigation or treatment procedures
Types of Foley Catheters
There are different types of Foley catheters based on material and design:
Latex Foley Catheters: Flexible and commonly used, but not suitable for latex-sensitive patients
Silicone Foley Catheters: Ideal for long-term use and patients with latex allergies
Coated Catheters: Hydrogel or antimicrobial coatings reduce friction and infection risk
They also vary in size and balloon capacity depending on patient needs.
Procedure of Insertion
Insertion of a Foley catheter is a sterile medical procedure performed by trained healthcare professionals. The urethral area is cleaned, and a lubricated catheter is gently inserted into the bladder. Once urine flow is confirmed, the balloon is inflated to secure the catheter in place.
Care and Maintenance
Proper care is essential to prevent infection and complications:
Keep the drainage bag below bladder level
Maintain hygiene around the catheter insertion site
Avoid pulling or twisting the tube
Empty the urine bag regularly
Monitor for signs of infection such as fever or discomfort