Rusch is a quality brand of catheters that Teleflex Medical company manufactures and distributes. Teleflex was founded in the United Kingdom in the 1800s and is among the most established and trusted providers of Rusch catheters in the world. Before you order or use one, however, you should make sure you know everything you need to in order to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Here are some of the basics to think about before choosing a catheter:
1. Only use a catheter when recommended by your doctor and with proper training
Even though they are frequently used in the home environment, catheters are medical devices and must be used carefully. Only use a catheter when your doctor has recommended it. If your doctor recommends that you discontinue, do not keep using it. Most importantly, catheters should be inserted only by those with the proper training, which means that you will need assistance with them until you have been properly taught. The good news is that you can be shown by the nurse or doctor and can learn how to cath very quickly.
2. Make sure you're choosing the right Rusch catheter product
Rusch makes a wide variety of catheter-related products, including several distinct kinds of catheters. This selection allows for more flexibility, but not every product is appropriate for every patient. Ask your doctor for their recommendation on what sort of catheter is appropriate in your particular case.
For most patients, this will consist of an intermittent catheter, such as Rusch’s intermittent catheter with a siliconized tip. You will also want to get the correct length of catheter, which will be based on whether you are male or female, and the dimensions of your particular body.
3. Ensure proper insertion
Rusch catheters come completely sterilized and in packaging, and should not require any antiseptic before use (though users may want to clean the area surrounding the urethra to minimize the number of bacteria). However, depending on the type of catheter you get, you may need to lubricate the piece for the smoothest insertion. Intermittent catheters, for instance, require this while closed-system and hydrophilic catheters come pre-lubricated. Without lubrication, insertion can be painful and even cause damage to your urethra. This also increases the risk of infection, so having a properly lubricated catheter is a must.
After the bladder has been emptied, the catheter should be removed, thrown away, and the area cleaned again. You should always wash your hands thoroughly both before and after the catheterization process and never reuse your catheters. Learn more about why you should not reuse your catheters here.
If you have any other questions or concerns about Rusch catheters we carry or any other brand of catheter, contact us at Personally Delivered. We have the Product Experts to help you find the right catheter for your needs!