Developing the multi-use method
Before we could ask intermittent catheterisation users to participate in the Trial, we needed to develop methods for the re-use of catheters that are acceptable and effective. We assessed the effect of cleaning on catheter materials to determine the optimum number of times a catheter can be re-used and over how long a time period.
Laboratory testing: We tested the effectiveness of various cleaning methods to find practical and effective solutions. Sections of uncoated catheters were exposed to a range of uropathogens (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus and Staphlococcus epidermidis) and were then cleaned using different methods (chemical disinfection with Milton sterilising fluid; soap and water; microwave sterilisation; steam sterilisation; vinegar solution; ultrasonic cleaner; boiling water). We found that soap and water and Milton sterilising fluid are consistently effective at cleaning the catheter sections of bacterial contamination with minimal damage to the catheter material Read more here.
User testing: To test in real life the cleaning methods found to be safe in the laboratory, men and women catheter users used soap and water and Milton sterilising fluid to clean uncoated catheters between uses. Their used catheters were returned to the laboratory to further assess the effectiveness of the cleaning method for safety.
The user panel also tested various methods for drying the catheters, discreet and hygienic storage both in the home and when away from home, and lubrication. Tubes of appropriate lengths and transparent zip-lock freezer bags were found to be a good option for both storage and transportation of male and female length catheters. Male length catheters present more of a problem for storage than shorter female catheters do: small Tupperware containers into which catheters can be coiled are protective and men find them a discreet solution for carrying a catheter in a jacket pocket Read more here.
This website refers to independent research funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) under its Programme Grants for Applied Research (PGfAR) Programme (Grant Reference Number RP-PG-0610-10078). The views expressed are those of the research team and not necessarily those of the NHS, the NIHR or the Department of Health.