Recent research into the standard of care and related quality of life of the (mainly) spinal-cord injured/afflicted (SCI/SCA) community in South Africa has revealed significant gaps in practice and challenges regarding levels of care and access to services and supplies specifically related to the neurogenic bladder
here is a significant body of evidence that the type of bladder management method and also the types of catheters used may have an impact on the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Prevention of UTIs is a major goal of bladder management. Education on proper catheterisation techniques and care is essential.
There is evidence that, as a population group, people with disabilities experience poorer health outcomes than the general population. People with SCI are at a high risk of secondary conditions such as pneumonia, pressure ulcers and UTIs. These conditions frequently lead to hospitalisation and can also result in increased costs for care, reduced employability, decreased quality of life and lowered life expectancy.
In response, the Continence Advisory Panel (CAP), sponsored by QASA and under the auspices of the Southern African Spinal Cord Association (SASCA), has produced a guideline (also sponsored by QASA) to further evidence-based bladder management (mainly in SCI/SCA) that ensures social continence, and appropriate and safe drainage of the neurogenic bladder. It has been drawn up in South Africa with the input of clinicians working in the fields of urology and rehab medicine – specifically in the field of SCI/SCA – with reference to well-researched existing international clinical guidelines and research. The Gold standard in the guideline is one sterile catheter for every emptying event.
Coloplast’s SpeediCath is a single-use hydrophilic coated catheter for intermittent catheterisation, which comes ready-to-use in a sterile saline solution. The unique hydrophilic coating and polished eyelets ensure convenient and simple catheterisation. The catheters are available in male and female versions. Free samples can be obtained from Coloplast.
Coloplast’s resident nurse, Sister sally roxburgh, answers some frequently asked questions…
Q: What makes SpeediCath better than its predecessor, EasiCath?
A: SpeediCath comes packaged in a saline solution, making it ready for immediate use when you open the packaging. There is no need for water, and you need not wait the usual 30 seconds for the coating to be activated.
Q: How does SpeediCath facilitate hygienic and comfortable catheterisation?
A: The hydrophilic coating covers not only the outside surface but also the inside of the catheter eyelets. An exclusive new production process gives the coating a unique ability to bind and retain water, making it exceptionally smooth and even. The smoothness dramatically reduces friction between the catheter and the urethral mucosa, minimising the risk of long-term damage.
Q: Can I carry my catheters with me in a discreet manner?
A: The SpeediCath catheter is foldable and can be carried discreetly in a pocket or small handbag. However, it should not be kept folded for more than three hours.
Q: Do the catheters come in variants to suit different individual needs?
A: Yes: we have a female version and a male version.
For more information about catheterisation, you can contact Sister Sally Roxburgh on 083 251 1178.
