Foley catheter (silicone-coated)
A silicone-coated Foley catheter is used for continuous drainage of urine from the bladder.
Main uses:
• Urinary retention (patient unable to pass urine)
• Monitoring urine output (ICU, post-surgery)
• During and after surgery
• Long-term catheterization (better tolerance than plain latex)
• Bladder irrigation (if 3-way type)
Why silicone-coated?
• Less irritation to the urethra
• Lower risk of allergy compared to pure latex
• Smoother surface, reduces encrustation
• More suitable for medium to long-term use
It has a balloon at the tip that is inflated with sterile water to keep it in place inside the bladder.