ISC

Everyday living
1

Hi all, I am just wondering who decided which size catheter you needed if you have to self cath ?

I just got put on size 10 and asked supplier for a sample of larger size but was told I need authority from GP for that.

Reason for asking is that first few weeks seemed fine but now get dribbles all around the cath and it gets messy !

How the heck do they measure you ? if they ever do ?

Ell

2

Blimey Ell - haven’t a clue how they measure!!! Catheters go on a GP prescription. So makes sense need their say so to change but shouldn’t be a problem. Good luck in stopping your dribbles Min xx

3

ell

you could try sending for free samples from some of the catheter companies

carole x

4

If you go online and google LoFric you can order sample catheters as Carole suggested, you could order a CH12 which is the next size up and try it if you think it will help. I was given CH12 when my prescription went wrong, I could tell by the size on opening the catheter that they were larger but I didn’t try them, I’m only a little person (5ft and 8 stone) so I was worried they might hurt me? God knows how they decide the original size-guess work I think!

Hope you get it sorted,

BFx

5

Thanks for that :slight_smile:

Ell

6

Hi Elljay, I used to sell ISC Caths, and the general rule of thumb is a woman is 10ch or 12ch, and a man is 12ch or 14ch. Usually unless there are reasons to choose otherwise, the smallest size is chosen first. Which is why you were given a 10 first. What brand are you using? Most companies would be happy to send samples. Also it is worth being aware that (if you don’t use this service already) that some companies offer a prescription delivery service where they can deliver the products direct to you. You have the choice which one you use, and some of them have their own nurses who can visit you in your home and help ensure you use the product correctly and have the right size etc. The company I would recommend (because it’s my old one!) is this one: http://www.rochestermedical.co.uk/index.php/script-easy. You don’t need to change catheter - they will provide all brands. Hope that helps, and if I can help any more, let me know. Leah :slight_smile:

7

Hi Leah, thank you for your reply.

I am in a bit of a catch 22 situation as my GP surgery has it,s own pharmacy and my GP says he will authorise my caths through them, it will be cheaper apparently to HIM as they get they via their wholesale rep.

I am using Coloplast speedicath … I did see a few others at continence clinic but was recommended the speedicath and as I still have to measure output for 3 months the bags which go with them work well.

I have now asked for size 12 but it has to be approved by GP as my continence nurse has handed over to him.

I am pretty sure it will be ok and I will get the 12,s.

Will see how they work for me, maybe it is my technique which is wrong.

Thanks again.

Ell

8

Hi Ell, Yes often gps, if they have their own surgery, will want to dispense all the prescriptions because they get a fee from the government for each one. It can be awkward because some GPS will hold their patients to ransom, when in fact all patients have the right to get their prescriptions wherever they choose. Good luck with it all anyway, hopefully a 12 will be the answer for you. Leah :slight_smile:

9

Thanks Leah, I hope so too.

Ell