Vicki: My routine for catheterisation at home is quite simple because I always keep all my products together in my own bathroom and I know my exact steps. I go through each of those and it doesn't take too long at all. When I go out I do take a little handy bag with me. I can do it when I'm out. I just have to plan my day.
Where can I do IC?
A place where you feel comfortable, such as your home, is suitable for doing IC. It might help to map out your neighbourhood and other places that you often go in order to be able to plan where you can do intermittent catheterisation comfortably. There are three things that determine whether a place is suitable for doing intermittent catheterisation:
Privacy
To have privacy when doing intermittent catheterisation is really important. Try to find out where there are bathrooms that give you the privacy you need and plan your day so you can visit them as needed.
Cleanliness
When IC is performed, there is always a risk of infection, but your own bacteria is rarely the main reason for getting urinary tract infections – the risk actually increases when other people like your nurse or carer perform IC on you.
Whatever the location or circumstance, do not forget to wash your hands immediately before touching the catheter. If you need to touch anything (wheelchair rims, crutches, a bathroom door handle) after you’ve washed your hands, use hand sanitising gel or wipes before touching the catheter.
If you often suffer from urinary tract infections (UTIs) you might be concerned about doing catheterisation outside your home. It is important that you empty your bladder regularly, as urine left in the bladder for a long period of time can also cause a UTI. So when you are out and about it is not a good idea to skip catheterisation – even though it can be difficult to find a clean bathroom.
Facilities
The layout in a bathroom also affects how easy it is to use. How much space you have, if the sink is near the toilet or, if you're in a wheelchair, if there is a ramp (and how steep it is) and how wide the door is.
You can use the smartphone app 'WheelMate' to find the bathrooms that suit you the best.
