Why catheter routines are important
Emptying your bladder with an intermittent catheter can offer you the freedom to participate in activities that are important to you. The key is finding a way to make emptying your bladder with a catheter a part of your daily routine. Here is some advice that other intermittent catheter users have found useful when they had to find their way of fitting catheterisation in to their daily lives.
Always remember that users performing self-catheterisation should follow the advice of their physician.
Use a chart or set an alarm to remember
At first, many people like to use a chart or diary, which can be good visual cues when implementing a new routine. Charts are also helpful if your healthcare provider wants you to keep track of the amount of urine you pass. Other suggestions might include setting a watch or a phone alarm.
Using IC is the preferred treatment when you are not able to empty your bladder normally – this is to avoid residual urine in the bladder, which can lead to growth of bacteria or complications (including urinary tract infections). Many people catheterize 4-6 times a day - or as often as prescribed by your health care provider – it all depends on your individual situation.