Managing urinary incontinence at home can be a significant challenge for many women and their caregivers. Traditional solutions like pads or indwelling catheters often come with risks such as skin irritation or urinary tract infections. The PureWick Female External Catheter system offers a non-invasive alternative designed to keep skin dry and improve comfort throughout the night. This guide explains how the system works, how to set it up, and the best ways to purchase it for home use.
What Is the PureWick System?
The PureWick system is a female external catheter designed to manage urinary incontinence without the need for invasive procedures. Unlike traditional catheters that are inserted into the bladder, this system sits externally between the labia and the gluteus. It uses a low-pressure suction pump to pull urine away from the body and into a collection canister.
The system consists of two primary components: the PureWick Female External Catheter (often called the “wick”) and the Urine Collection System (the pump). The wick is a soft, flexible tube wrapped in a wicking material that absorbs moisture and protects the skin. Because it is non-invasive, it significantly reduces the risk of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) commonly seen with internal devices.
Benefits of Using an External Catheter at Home
For many users, the primary benefit of an external catheter is the improvement in skin health. Prolonged exposure to moisture is a leading cause of skin breakdown and pressure sores. By continuously wicking moisture away, the system helps maintain skin integrity and prevents rashes.
Another major advantage is the improvement in sleep quality. Caregivers and users often find that they no longer need to wake up multiple times a night for pad changes. This leads to better rest for both the patient and the person providing care. Additionally, the system is designed to be quiet, making it suitable for use in a bedroom environment.
Key Advantages Include:
- Non-invasive design: No insertion is required, which increases comfort and safety.
- Skin protection: Keeps urine away from the skin to prevent maceration.
- Ease of use: Simple setup that can be managed by a family member or the user themselves.
- Versatility: Works well for users with limited mobility or those who are bedbound.
How to Set Up the Collection System
Before using the system for the first time, it is important to set up the collection pump correctly. Place the pump on a flat, stable surface near the bed, such as a nightstand. Ensure the device is close enough to the user so that the tubing can reach comfortably without being pulled taut.
Connect the power cord to the back of the pump and plug it into a standard wall outlet. Next, attach the collection canister to the pump unit. Most systems use a simple click-in mechanism to secure the canister in place. Once the canister is secure, attach the long plastic tubing to the connector on the canister lid. This tubing will eventually connect to the disposable wick.
Proper Placement of the External Catheter
Correct placement of the wick is essential for the system to function effectively. Start by performing perineal hygiene to ensure the area is clean and dry. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the sterile wick packaging.
To place the wick, the user should ideally be lying on her back with her knees bent. Separate the labia and position the soft, fabric-covered portion of the wick between the labia and the gluteus. The top of the wick should be aligned with the pubic bone, and the bottom should extend toward the rectum. It is important that the wick is tucked snugly but comfortably against the body to ensure it catches all moisture.
Step-by-Step Placement Guide:
- Prepare the area: Clean the perineal area and ensure the skin is dry.
- Position the wick: Place the wick lengthwise between the labia and the gluteus.
- Align correctly: Ensure the white fabric side is against the skin and the tubing end is pointing toward the feet.
- Connect to suction: Attach the end of the wick to the tubing connected to the collection pump.
- Turn on the pump: Switch the device on and check for a gentle hum, indicating the suction is active.
Maintaining and Cleaning the System
Proper maintenance is required to keep the system hygienic and functioning properly. The collection canister and the reusable tubing should be cleaned daily. Empty the canister whenever it reaches the fill line or at least once every 24 hours.
To clean the canister, wash it with warm water and a mild dish soap. Rinse it thoroughly to ensure no soap residue remains. You should also run a mixture of water and a small amount of vinegar through the tubing once a week to prevent odor buildup and bacterial growth. Never use bleach or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the plastic components.
Replacement Schedule:
- Wicks: These are single-use items and should be replaced every 8 to 12 hours, or sooner if they become soiled with stool.
- Canisters: Most manufacturers recommend replacing the collection canister every 60 days.
- Tubing: The long connector tubing should also be replaced every 60 days to maintain optimal suction.
How to Purchase the System and Supplies
Acquiring the system for home use typically involves two paths: insurance coverage or direct retail purchase. Because it is a medical device, many users prefer to go through their insurance provider to manage the ongoing costs of disposable wicks.
To get the system covered by insurance, including Medicare, you will generally need a prescription from a healthcare provider. The prescription must state that the device is medically necessary due to chronic incontinence that has not responded to other treatments. Medicare often covers the pump and canisters, though coverage for the disposable wicks can vary depending on the specific plan and the patient’s medical setting.
If insurance coverage is not an option, the system can be purchased directly from medical supply retailers. This allows for immediate access without waiting for insurance approvals. When buying at retail, you can often find starter kits that include the pump, a supply of wicks, and the necessary tubing to get started right away.
Conclusion
The PureWick system provides a reliable and gentle way to manage urinary incontinence at home. By following the correct setup and placement procedures, users can enjoy dryer skin and more restful nights. Remember to maintain a strict cleaning schedule and replace the disposable wicks regularly to ensure the highest level of hygiene. If you are interested in exploring more ways to improve home care and medical comfort, consider reading our other articles on home health equipment and senior wellness strategies.