Is “bladder training” needed when starting to use flip-flow valves?

[Bagpuss21]

I’ve finally got the flip-flow valves 😃 and am wanting to check something out please.

(GPs closed for training, 111 waayyy too busy to take patients calls, NHS app is offline for whatever reason).

Some nurses have told me I use the flip-flow as and when I feel the need to have a wee (appropriate place, of course!), and others tell me I have to go hourly at first, and build up to 4-hourly gradually. I’ve had the catheter in since 11th May.

Can anyone help me out on this one please?

[Darlenia]

Hi Bgpuss21. Much it depends on whether or not if you have sensation according to my research. If you have sensation, you can relieve yourself when needed. If you no longer have sensation, then you relieve yourself at regular 2 to 4 hour intervals. This report gives a good overview of the matter: guysandstthomas.nhs.uk/reso...

Trust you're finding the flip flow valve to be good alternative to the Foley catheter. Those are such a pain! You truly deserve to have a nice trouble-free life.

[sanscrip]

I had a catheter in for 3 months last spring. Consultant told me to empty every 2 hours at first then whenever I felt the need. Worked perfectly.

[Bagpuss21 in reply to sanscrip]

Thanks for the advice, very helpful.