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What are the different reasons why a foley catheter would leak. I am a home health nurse , RN, and have a patient who's catheter leaks when she bears down, ( Like when she's passing gas, or having a BM, or standing from a sitting position (has painful weak knees). What different things can I try to help this situation. This is a new Foley to her. Placed last week because of her decubes on her buttocks. ( situation where there is absolutely no quality care giver to help keep her skin clean). She is using a 16 fr, with 30cc SNS. Would a different size help? Or a smaller inflated balloon?
Optional Information: Gender: Female Age: 56 Already Tried: Emptying the balloon to see if it could possibly have a slow leak. (Full 20cc sns initially place was still there). I tried refilling balloon with a full 30cc capacity (previously had 20cc sns in the balloon.
Hello,The commonest cause for a leaking Foley's catheter is using a smaller size then necessary. You will need to use a catheter with a larger gauge.A small inflated balloon will not help.Another cause for a leak could be weak bladder sphincter muscles which fail to adequately grip the catheter. This is very common in women of her age. Your patient will need to see a urologist to rule out this condition.Please try using a larger gauge catheter - that should help prevent the leak.I hope this helps. Please feel free to ask a followup question if necessary. If not, please click the green 'Accept' button on this page. Leaving a bonus and positive feedback will be highly appreciated.
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