Why Silicone-Elastomer Coating Over Latex

Standard latex catheters can create friction during insertion and may trigger inflammatory responses in some patients due to latex proteins. Silicone-elastomer coating provides a smooth, lubricious surface that glides more easily through the urethra, reducing insertion trauma and patient discomfort. This coating also creates a biocompatible barrier between latex and tissue, minimizing protein contact while maintaining the flexibility and cost-effectiveness of a latex core. The result is a catheter that combines latex's proven performance and affordability with silicone's superior surface properties—offering smoother insertion, reduced urethral irritation, and improved patient comfort during indwelling use. For facilities seeking enhanced insertion ease without the higher cost of 100% silicone catheters, silicone-elastomer coated options provide an effective middle ground.

Key Features

• Silicone-elastomer coating: smooth, lubricious surface over latex core
• 2-way Foley design: one lumen for drainage, one for balloon inflation
• 16 French (16 Fr) diameter: standard size for adequate drainage flow
• 5 mL balloon capacity: secure, comfortable retention
• Two opposing drainage eyes: dual eyelets promote consistent flow and reduce occlusion
• Standard adult length: appropriate for most male and female anatomies
• Universal funnel connector: compatible with standard drainage bag tubing
• Color-coded funnel: orange indicator for 16 Fr size identification
• Sterile single-use: individually packaged for aseptic insertion
• Box of 10: economical bulk packaging for facilities

Benefits

• Smooth coating reduces insertion friction and urethral trauma
• Dual drainage eyes minimize obstruction risk from debris or positioning
• Secure 5 mL balloon retention prevents catheter migration
• Cost-effective alternative to 100% silicone for standard indwelling use
• Bulk packaging reduces per-unit cost and simplifies inventory
• Standard sizing ensures compatibility with existing drainage systems
• Single-use design eliminates reprocessing concerns

Clinical Applications

✓ Post-surgical bladder drainage: continuous monitoring after procedures
✓ Urinary retention: relief for acute or chronic incomplete emptying
✓ Critical care monitoring: accurate urine output measurement in ICU
✓ Immobilized patients: drainage for bedridden or mobility-limited individuals
✓ Perioperative use: bladder decompression during and after surgery
✓ Neurogenic bladder: management for spinal cord injury or neurological conditions
✓ Short- to intermediate-term catheterization: typically up to 30 days
✓ Facilities seeking cost-effective coated catheters: balance between performance and budget

Usage & Application

For healthcare professionals performing indwelling urinary catheterization in hospital, long-term care, or home healthcare settings. This is an indwelling catheter designed to remain in place with continuous drainage.

Catheter insertion (aseptic technique required):

1. Gather supplies: catheter, sterile gloves, antiseptic solution, 10 mL syringe with sterile water, sterile drape, water-soluble lubricant, drainage bag with tubing
2. Position patient appropriately (supine with knees bent for females; supine or semi-recumbent for males)
3. Perform hand hygiene and don sterile gloves
4. Prepare sterile field and cleanse urethral meatus with antiseptic per facility protocol
5. Test balloon integrity: inflate with 5 mL sterile water, check for leaks, then deflate completely
6. Apply water-soluble lubricant generously to catheter tip and shaft (the silicone-elastomer coating enhances glide but supplemental lubricant is still recommended)
7. For females: Insert catheter gently into urethral meatus until urine flows, then advance an additional 1-2 inches
8. For males: Hold penis perpendicular to body, insert catheter gently through urethra until urine flows, then advance to the hub (approximately 7-9 inches total)
9. Once urine flows and catheter is properly positioned, inflate balloon with exactly 5 mL sterile water (never use saline or air)
10. Gently pull catheter until balloon seats against bladder neck—do not force
11. Connect drainage tubing to catheter funnel
12. Secure catheter to patient's thigh (females) or lower abdomen (males) using securement device
13. Position drainage bag below bladder level

Ongoing catheter care:

• Maintain closed drainage system at all times
• Keep drainage bag below bladder level to ensure gravity drainage
• Empty drainage bag when 2/3 full or per facility protocol
• Perform routine meatal care per facility protocol (typically daily cleansing)
• Monitor for signs of infection, obstruction, or catheter malfunction
• Document urine output, color, clarity, and any abnormalities

Catheter removal:

1. Empty drainage bag and record final output
2. Don clean gloves
3. Attach empty syringe to balloon port
4. Withdraw all 5 mL from balloon (should aspirate easily)
5. Gently and slowly remove catheter
6. Monitor patient for spontaneous voiding within 6-8 hours

Duration of use: Silicone-elastomer coated latex catheters are typically recommended for up to 30 days of indwelling use. Follow facility protocols for routine catheter changes.

Important note: While the silicone-elastomer coating reduces latex protein exposure, this catheter still contains a latex core. It should NOT be used in patients with known severe latex allergies. For latex-allergic patients, specify 100% silicone catheters instead.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Indwelling urinary catheter (Foley), 2-way
• Size: 16 French (16 Fr)
• Color code: Orange funnel (standard 16 Fr identification)
• Balloon capacity: 5 mL (inflate with sterile water only)
• Lumens: Two (one for drainage, one for balloon inflation/deflation)
• Length: Standard adult length (approximately 16 inches/40 cm)
• Material composition: Latex core with silicone-elastomer coating
• Drainage eyes: Two opposing eyelets for consistent flow
• Funnel connector: Universal standard size for drainage bag tubing
• Coating benefits: Smooth, lubricious surface; reduced friction; enhanced biocompatibility
• Sterility: Individually packaged, sterile (ETO or radiation sterilization)
• Intended use: Single-patient use; indwelling catheterization
• Recommended duration: Up to 30 days—follow facility protocols
• Latex content: Contains latex—not for severe latex-allergic patients
• Packaging: 10 catheters per box
• Brand: Bardia