What sized catheter should be used with the catheterisation simulators?
The Limbs & Things catheterisation training models have been designed for use with a size 14 Foley Catheter.
While use with other sized catheters is possible, we would not recommend their use as there’s potential to damage the trainer, effecting the warranty, performance and life of the trainer.
How can we get the optimal use from our catheter simulation model?
To improve the longevity of your trainers, we would recommend the following simple steps to help you get the most out of your catheterisation set:
Protecting the silicone from rips and tears:
- Use lubrication when inserting a catheter
- Wear gloves and remove jewellery to keep sharp items from damaging the surfaces
- Deflate balloon catheters before removing them
- Always insert and remove the internal module with two hands, as shown
Cleaning and maintaining the catherisation set to avoid blockages or decay of parts:
- Always remove catheters when not in use
- Only use recommended gel and liquids with the catheter trainer
- Add an anti-fungal/sterilization agent to the water
- Always drain the trainer set after use and allow it to dry naturally
- Remove lubricant and fluids from surfaces with a soft damp cloth and mild detergent
Is it possible to check the positioning of the catheter once it has been inserted?
Yes. The pelvic unit of each catheterisation module has clear sides that contain the internal structure and bladder reservoir. This part of the unit is hidden from the trainee during the procedure by the pelvic shell and stand. Following a completed procedure, the unit can be removed with the urinary catheter still in place, allowing you to see the catheter placement and inflation of the balloon for assessment.
Is it possible to practice ultrasound suprapubic catheter insertion with the Advanced Catheterisation training manikin set?
With the addition of the suprapubic catheterisation Insertion unit, you can easily practice suprapubic techniques. Designed using the same modular casing, it is quick and easy to switch between standard and suprapubic modules.
Why does the suprapubic module only come in a female unit?
Limbs & Things gathered feedback from evaluators involved in the development stages of the suprapubic module. Their response was that the process is the same for both male and female patients when inserting a catheter in this region. The decision was made to only produce one version of this module, to keep the catheterisation range more cost effective for training purposes.
Troubleshooting:
Our catheter trainer is leaking
Here are a couple of quick checks to run on your trainer if you discover a leak:
- Is the Bladder Valve orange in colour? – If no, we would advise changing it to the newer orange valve
- Check the Bladder Valve for damage – over time the valve can become damaged, replace the valve if there are signs of wear, such as light visible through the silicone
- Has water been left in the unit when not in use? – the valves distort when left submerged in water for long periods of time. It is advised that between uses, fluid in drained. Change the bladder valve if it has been left in water and damage is visible
We are unable to catheterize our trainer
Here are some of the common issues related to unsuccessful catheter insertion on the catheterization simulator:
- Old bladder diaphragm – current bladder diaphragms are yellow in colour, older version can hinder procedures due to age
- Old catheter being used – old catheters can get stuck around the diaphragm as the balloon has been inflated numerous times, this can increase the diameter of the catheter
- Not enough lubricant on the catheter – between 5-10ml of catheter lubricant should be used before each insertion
- No lubricant applied during set up – the top of the diaphragm and underside of the bladder cap should be lubricated during assembly of the trainer
- Bladder unit in incorrect position – ensure the bladder unit is in the correct gender position, incorrect positioning can lead to an inability to catheterise
