Wellspect Healthcare: Hydrophilic vs non-hydrophilic catheters

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What is a hydrophilic catheter?
A hydrophilic catheter is one which has a surface layer coating that attracts and binds water as well as holds water. This ensures the catheter tube remains slippery, comfortable and safe during insertion and withdrawal.

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Which is better?
Guidelines recommend hydrophilic catheters, or uncoated non- hydrophilic catheters with separate add-on of lubricant, to minimise pain and discomfort.^1-3 However, hydrophilic catheters and uncoated catheters are still quite different from each other.
Uncoated catheters require the add-on of lubricant, which can be messy and potentially difficult to add correctly. It can also be more time consuming and increase risk for contamination.
Hydrophilic catheters are smooth and slippery without add-on lubrication because of the surface layer coating. They are ready for use easily and quickly, for a minimal fuss and clean procedure. They maintain a uniform slipperiness right up to withdrawal of the catheter ensuring maximum urethral health.
The European Association of Urology Nurses consider hydrophilic catheters to be the gold standard in single use catheters.¹
References
1. Vahr S et a l. EAUN guideline 2013. http://www.uroweb.org/filadmin/EAUN/ guidelines/2013_EAUN_Guideline_Milan_2013Lr_DEF.pdf
2. Newman DK, Willson MM. Urologic Nursing 2011;31(1):13.
3. NICE Clinical guidelines. Guidance.nice.org.uk/139. March 2012.
4. Li L et al. Arch Phys Med Rehab 2013;94:782–7.
5. Bakke A et al. Br J Urol 1997;79(1):85–90.
6. Vapnek JM et al. J Urol 2003;169(3):994–8.
7. Chartier-Castler E, Denys P. Neurology and Urodynamics 2011;30:21–31.
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