Drainage bags are a urine collection tool used with catheters to store and collect urine in a hygienic and user-friendly manner. These items provide ease and comfort for the caregiver and improved care for the patient. These bags are often used for those who have conditions like urinary incontinence, urinary retention, or any other urinary health issues that may make a catheter necessary.
Types of Drainage Bags and Some of their Feature
Drainage bags come in two main types: one that hangs from the bedside or a wheelchair and another that is strapped to the patient’s thigh. These two bags have different uses and can be switched out when the need arises. Here are the types of drainage bags and some of their features:
Bedside Drainage Bags
Bedside drainage bags, or otherwise called the overnight drainage bag, is connected to the tubing of the catheter and allows for a free flow of urine from the bladder into the bag via the catheter. Since these bags come in a variety of sizes and capacities, it can also be used for nephrostomy draining. Some of the advantages of bedside drainage bags include:
Usage:Bedside drainage bags can come in single-use or multiple-use variants. Some prefer single-use because of its efficient clean-up and removing the need for any cleaning. However, some prefer the multiple-use type for economic reasons and overall practicality. Apart from this, most of these drainage bags have an anti-kink drain tube, which prevents the tubing from twisting or curling upon itself to lessen the risk of any disturbance in the urine flow.
Antibacterial: A number of bedside drainage bags feature a collection system with an antimicrobial or antibacterial agent impregnated into it to repel any pathogens that are responsible for catheter-associated urinary tract infections. This makes the process of having a catheter a little less worrying.
Anti-reflux: Some bedside drainage bags have a valve that prevents the reflux of urine from the bag into the drainage bag. This will prevent any possible complications and infections that may be obtained because of this. There are a few brands to choose from that have this anti-reflux flutter valve.
Sensitivity: Apart from sterile and non-sterile bedside bags available, there are also latex and latex-free variants that address the concern for people who may have latex allergies.
Urinemeters: Almost all drainage bags now feature a urinemeter which makes it easier for caregivers to measure the amount of urine excreted.
Urine Leg Bags
Urine leg bags are the variant that is worn on the leg, above or below the knee This may be attached directly to a foley catheter or an external condom catheter. This type of drainage bag is very versatile and makes mobility a bit easier for anyone with urinary conditions as they allow the person to do their daily activities hassle-free. Because of this, it can be used during the daytime and can be concealed under clothing. These bags must be placed below the bladder to avoid reflux of the urine. Here are some of the features that some urine leg bags have:
Anti-reflux: Similar to bedside drainage bags, some urine leg bags have a valve that prevents the reflux of urine from the bag into the drainage bag.
Twist turn drain valve: Urine leg bags have a drain valve that makes the act of emptying out the bag quick and easy. This makes the act of draining convenient for those who may have limited dexterity and reduced any incidents of spilling.
T-T Drainage Valve: As a type of drainage valve, the T-T valve, in particular, provides easy operations once the time comes to empty the bag.
Flip Flo Valve: Another type that provides added security and ease of use is the flip flo valve. These allow for easy opening and closing of the valve with just a simple flip.
Drainage bags assists in an easy and efficient way for persons with urinary issues to remove fluids from their body. Having the right devices for any scenario and knowing well how to take care of them will save you time, money, and stress in the long run.
