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External Catheters

How to Use a BD PureWick Female External Catheter in 5 Steps

Angela Breslin, RN
January 25, 2024
0
min read

Introduction

Brief Overview of the Purewick Female External Catheter

Made by BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) Non-invasive Uses low-pressure wall suction Effectively manages urine output Reduces the risk of urinary incontinence associated problems such as skin irritation and infection

Do everyday tasks feel like a burden due to your urinary incontinence issue? Are you seeking a non-invasive, efficient, and user-friendly solution to manage your urinary incontinence? As industry experts at ProMed DME, we'd like to introduce you to the PureWick Female External Catheter. A product designed specifically for women, PureWick offers an innovative approach to managing urinary incontinence by making the process more comfortable, convenient and safe.

To address all your concerns and questions, we are presenting a simple, step-by-step guide to using this catheter which allows for non-invasive urine output management. Understanding the ins and outs of this product can drastically improve your quality of life.

Importance of Managing Urinary Incontinence

As urological veterans, we know that urinary incontinence, disability, post-surgery recovery, or any other condition that affects bladder control can greatly impact your daily activities and overall quality of life. Luckily, there's a wealth of products like the PureWick catheter designed to empower and alleviate such challenges.

That said, choosing the right product for you is crucial. We stand by the PureWick Female External Catheter due to its simplicity, effectiveness, and the option for at-home use through our delivery partner, Liberatory Medical.

In the forthcoming sections, we will simplify and demystify the process of using a BD PureWick Female External Catheter.

Detailed Infographic explaining the process of using PureWick Catheter Step by Step - bd purewick female external catheter infographic roadmap-5-steps

Understanding the PureWick Female External Catheter

The BD PureWick Female External Catheter is a revolution in managing urinary incontinence. Let's dive deeper into how this catheter works, its benefits, and who can benefit from using it.

How the PureWick Female External Catheter Works

The BD PureWick Female External Catheter is an innovative and non-invasive device that helps manage urinary incontinence. It works using a soft, flexible wick that's placed between the labia and gluteal muscles. This wick is connected to a collection system that applies low-pressure suction.

The device works by creating a gentle suction force once the wick is correctly positioned. This force effectively draws urine away from the body and into a collection canister, ensuring a dry and comfortable environment. This simple and flexible system can be used for both short-term and long-term care situations.

Benefits of Using the PureWick Female External Catheter

The BD PureWick Female External Catheter offers several significant benefits:

  1. Non-invasive: Unlike traditional catheters, the PureWick catheter doesn't involve any invasive procedures, making it a more comfortable and less stressful option for users.
  2. Keeps the skin dry: The suction system ensures that urine is quickly drawn away from the body, keeping the skin dry and reducing the risk of skin irritation and infection.
  3. Flexibility: The PureWick system can be used in both short-term and long-term care situations, such as post-surgical recovery or managing chronic urinary incontinence.
  4. Ease of use: The PureWick catheter is simple to use at home, offering users greater independence and comfort.

Who Can Benefit from Using the PureWick Female External Catheter

The BD PureWick Female External Catheter is designed primarily for women who are experiencing urinary incontinence. It's particularly beneficial for individuals who struggle with mobility or those who find traditional catheter use uncomfortable or inconvenient.

This device is also a great solution for post-operative care or for those who require long-term incontinence management. While the PureWick catheter offers many benefits, it isn't suitable for everyone. For instance, it's not recommended for individuals who experience frequent bowel incontinence without a fecal management system in place.

At ProMed DME, we understand that managing urinary incontiness can be a challenge. That's why we're proud to offer the BD PureWick Female External Catheter, a simple, non-invasive solution that keeps you dry, comfortable, and in control. If you have any questions about this device or need further assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to us.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using the PureWick Female External Catheter

The BD PureWick Female External Catheter is designed to be simple and easy to use, ensuring comfort and effectiveness in managing urinary incontinence. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you use this device properly.

Step 1: Preparing the PureWick Female External Catheter

Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary components of the PureWick system, including the PureWick catheter, the PureWick urine collection canister, and the PureWick suction machine. Ensure all components are clean and in good working condition. Always remember to wash your hands thoroughly before handling the catheter.

Step 2: Positioning the PureWick Female External Catheter

To position the catheter, you need to separate the legs, gluteus muscles, and labia. Then, place the PureWick catheter between the labia and the anus with the thicker part closer to the anus. The catheter should be in contact with the area around the urethral opening to effectively draw urine away from the body.

Step 3: Connecting the PureWick Female External Catheter to the Collection System

After positioning the catheter, attach the end of the catheter to the collector tubing that leads to the collection canister. Make sure the connection is secure to prevent any leaks. Then, connect the tubing to the suction machine and turn it on. The suction machine will create a gentle vacuum that pulls urine away from the body and into the canister.

Step 4: Monitoring and Maintaining the PureWick Female External Catheter

While using the PureWick catheter, it's crucial to frequently monitor the system to ensure it's functioning properly. Check for any leaks or blockages in the tubing and make sure the canister is not full. Additionally, keep an eye on the skin condition around the catheter to prevent any skin irritations. The PureWick catheter should be replaced at least every 8 to 12 hours, or immediately if soiled with blood or feces.

Step 5: Removing and Disposing of the PureWick Female External Catheter

When it's time to replace the catheter, turn off the suction machine first. Then, gently remove the PureWick catheter from the body and disconnect it from the collector tubing. Dispose of the used catheter in a sealed bag and place it in the trash. Always remember to wash your hands after handling a used catheter.

Using the BD PureWick Female External Catheter can significantly improve the quality of life for those managing urinary incontinence. As with any medical device, it's important to use it correctly to maximize its effectiveness and prevent any potential complications. If you have any questions or need further assistance, contact us at ProMed DME. We're here to help!

Frequently Asked Questions about the PureWick Female External Catheter

In this section, we will address some of the most frequently asked questions about the BD PureWick Female External Catheter. These questions cover crucial aspects like usage duration, insurance coverage, and correct placement of the device.

How Long Can a PureWick Stay in Place?

The PureWick Female External Catheter is designed for single use. It should be replaced at least every 8 to 12 hours. However, if it becomes soiled with blood or feces, it should be replaced immediately. This ensures optimal functionality and hygiene.

Does Medicare Pay for PureWick at Home?

Unfortunately, the PureWick Female External Catheter and related supplies sold through our website are not covered by Medicare, Medicaid or Commercial Insurance. These are cash sales only. However, our team at ProMed DME is dedicated to providing the best possible products at affordable prices.

Where Should PureWick be Placed?

Placement of the PureWick Female External Catheter is critical for its effective functioning. It should be attached to collector tubing, and then placed between the legs, specifically between the labia and gluteus muscles. The pubic bone serves as an anatomical marker during placement. Always perform perineal care and assess skin integrity before placement.

Proper positioning of the PureWick catheter is essential for effective urine collection and to prevent skin irritation.

If you have more questions about the PureWick Female External Catheter or any other products, don't hesitate to reach out to us at ProMed DME. Our expert, Mike Breslin, and the rest of our team are always ready to assist you. We're here to support you every step of the way.

Conclusion

Recap of How to Use the PureWick Female External Catheter

We've given you a step-by-step guide on how to use the BD PureWick Female External Catheter. Starting from preparing the device, through positioning it, connecting it to the collection system, and monitoring its usage, to finally removing and disposing of it properly.

The PureWick catheter is a single-use device that should be replaced every 8 to 12 hours, or immediately if soiled with blood or feces. It offers an effective solution for managing urinary incontinence, helping to keep the skin dry and reducing the risk of skin irritation and infections.

The Role of ProMed DME in Providing Quality Medical Supplies

At ProMed DME, we are committed to providing high-quality medical supplies that make a difference in our customers' lives. We understand how crucial it is to find reliable products that are easy to use and effective in managing your healthcare needs.

Our expert, Mike Breslin, along with the rest of our team, is always ready to assist you with any questions or concerns you might have about our products, including the BD PureWick Female External Catheter. We offer free shipping and legendary customer service to ensure you receive the best DME products for your needs.

If you're looking for more information or resources, don't hesitate to explore our informative blog posts and product guides on our website. They offer a wealth of knowledge on a range of topics related to urinary catheters, incontinence management, and more.

You're not alone in this journey. At ProMed DME, we're here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you receive the best care and supplies for your needs.

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Thank you for choosing ProMed DME as your trusted provider of medical supplies. We look forward to serving you and helping you live a comfortable, fulfilling life.

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