A closed system catheter is a pre-lubricated intermittent catheter, contained inside of a collection bag. When ready to insert, the user will advance the catheter out of the bag into the urethra until it reaches the bladder. Once in the bladder, urine will drain into the attached collection bag. The collection bag allows the user to measure output and monitor hydration levels. It also allows you to self catheterize anywhere there is privacy even if a toilet is not available.
In addition, most closed system catheters have an added feature called an introducer tip. The introducer tip allows the pre-lubricated catheter to bypass the highest concentrations of bacteria located in the first few millimeters of the urethra, helping to further reduce the risk of infection. A closed system intermittent catheter can be used by both men and women.
