While conventional indwelling catheters address the basic needs of urine retention and incontinence, they come with serious drawbacks for patients, healthcare professionals, and healthcare systems

Accidental urine leakage during catheter insertion

During catheter insertion, manipulation, or disconnection, uncontrolled urine leakage frequently occurs. This exposes healthcare professionals to biological fluids, compromises the sterile field, increases the risk of contamination and catheter-associated infections, and complicates an already sensitive procedure. At the same time, it adds workload and stress for nursing staff and negatively impacts patient comfort, dignity, and overall quality of life
​

​Recurrent A&E visits

Patients with indwelling urinary catheters frequently present to Emergency Departments due to preventable issues such as urine leakage, catheter blockage, accidental disconnections, pain, or suspected infections. These recurrent visits place avoidable pressure on already overloaded emergency services, increase healthcare costs, and disrupt continuity of care, while causing unnecessary stress and inconvenience for patients and their caregivers.

​

Loss of patient dignity & QoL

Uncontrolled urine leakage associated with indwelling catheters can cause discomfort, embarrassment, and anxiety for patients. Wet clothing, odors, skin irritation, and unexpected leaks during movement or daily activities undermine personal dignity and independence. Over time, these experiences negatively affect emotional well-being, social interaction, mobility, and overall quality of life, particularly for elderly, chronic, or long-term catheterized patients.

Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections (CAUTIs)

Indwelling catheters are a major source of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs), driven by open systems, repeated disconnections, and uncontrolled urine exposure, leading to increased morbidity, longer hospital stays, and higher healthcare costs. CAUTIs remain one of the most common preventable healthcare-associated infections. 

Increased nursing workload

Conventional indwelling catheter systems require constant monitoring and manual management to control urine drainage. Nurses must frequently intervene to manage leaks, connect or disconnect collection bags, clean contaminated areas, change bedding or clothing, and reassure patients. These repeated, low-value tasks consume significant nursing time, interrupt workflows, and divert attention from higher-priority clinical care—contributing to inefficiency, staff fatigue, and burnout in already overstretched healthcare environments.

Real testimony about living with a bladder catheter. Behind every catheter is a real person and a real life.​

---