Use and Throw?

There are different opinions on using-and-throwing or re-using catheters. I think it depends on the country/healthcare plan/who’s paying for the catheters. I spent a decade or two re-using the same catheter for a whole week before replacing. Then was advised to use and throw instead. And what do you know? I had a lot less UTIs. So if you can afford to use and throw, I’d certainly recommend it.

I’ve heard rumours that our beloved British National Health Service is encouraging people to re-use catheters to save costs. Utter short-sighted madness. If I re-used catheters, I guarantee I’d be in hospital at least twice a year, for probably a week at a time. What would cost them more?

So if our dear cost-cutting government were to insist on re-using caths, well I’d rather not jeopardise my health, thanks. I’d buy my own caths, and if that means selling a kidney to afford it, then… well, at least when I tell my pub friends I’ve got kidney problems, I’d be telling the truth.

Speaking of pubs… Next blog, that’s where we’re going.

The opinions expressed here are of a personal and anecdotal nature, and are in no way a substitute for professional medical advice. You should always consult your doctor or nurse if you have any questions.