The Foley Catheters that Prevent Biofilm UTIs

Biofilm is the new medical hot topic that you need to care about if you use Foley catheters or IV supplies.

Biofilm is the by-product of being human, and so, susceptible to bacteria.  The human body teems with bacteria, both good for us and bad for us.  Nowhere do we see this more than when dealing with our body's wastes.  The flow of bodily fluids and wastes is like a raging river, dropping bits of bacterial sediment along its path until it exits the body.  This bacteria exists in our blood, urine, and feces.  It's normal and when everything is functioning properly, it's removed as well as it should be to keep you healthy.

The problems begin when the body can't remove its own wastes.  When the heart does not pump enough blood to clear the lymphatic fluids, or the bladder is unable to empty itself, a person needs medical attention.  These tasks are essential to the body's performance and can be life threatening if not treated.  IV fluids and internal catheters help but if not monitored, they can harm.

Since blood and urine flow through these products, biofilms build up.  Bacteria, wanting to populate in our bodies, are sticky, and so will build colonies with ease in our bodies.  These sticky bacteria continue to build on the surface of any intruding medical device, until the body can not fight off the resulting infection.  These colonies are called biofilm.  For example, people who use indwelling catheters will see themselves at constant risk for UTIs (urinary tract infections) that could become serious bladder or kidney infections if left untreated.

So how do we prevent Biofilm related infections?  Many medical devices are now created with protective anti-bacterial layers.  The antibiotic coating prevents bacterial adhesion.  Cleaner insertion techniques prevent external contamination.  New technology in Foley catheter flushing and UV lights are also in the testing phases. 

The greatest tool is communication between patient or caregiver and doctor.  You can stay informed on the latest healthcare news here on our blog and you can always shop your discount medical supplies with us.  We carry the latest lines in catheters, personal sanitation, and caregiver or professional supplies.