Urinary catheters are used to drain the bladder due to incontinence, urinary retention, surgery or other medical conditions that prohibit normal function. Careful handling and cleaning is required since catheters can introduce bacteria to the body, so irrigation and insertion trays are recommended.
There are three main types of catheters:
Indwelling Catheter - Left in place in the bladder, can be used for long or short periods of time. They have a small balloon inflated on the end to prevent it from sliding out of the body. The catheter is attached to a drainage bag which collects the urine.
Condom Catheter - A condom catheter is placed over the penis, similar to a condom, and has a tube that leads from the device to a drainage bag to collect urine. These need to be changed every day.
Intermittent (short-term) Catheter - These catheters are only used on occassion and are removed after the flow of urine stops.
There are two types of Drainage Bags:
Leg Bag - A smaller device that attaches with bands to the leg, usually worn during the day.
Night Bag - Also known as a Down Drain, it is larger and mostly used at night, hung on the bed or placed on the floor.
Of course we carry all of these Catheters & Urological Supplies at GREAT prices!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Compression Stockings Explained
Remember the slightly brownish-orange stockings your Grandmother used to wear? These are no longer them! Compression stockings (or compression hose, compression socks, diabetic socks, etc.) have come a very long way!
Compression Sockings help your circulatory system work like it should by pushing dilated vein walls back into place. The result is increased blood flow which, in turn, significantly reduces leg swelling, pain, fatigue and risk of blood clot formation.
Compression stockings are available in different levels of compression and the unit used to classify compression stockings is mmHg, or manometric units of pressure. These stockings are made of elastic fibers or rubber and have higher compression at the ankle, where veins are the weakest and swelling usually is worse, and gradually lower compression up the leg.
Compression stockings can be used for diseases such as Deep Vein Thrombosis, Diabetes and Venous Disorders. Medical stockings usually require a prescription from your doctor since exact compression fit is critical.
Compression Stockings can also be used for travel related swelling, during pregnancy, for prevention of vericose veins and by athletes.
You will need to be professionally fitted for compression stockings and the best time to do this is early in the morning, when swelling is at its lowest. Stockings also wear out after about six months, so its important to get new ones regularly to achieve the desired benefit. Stockings start around $10 per pair and go up to around $50, depending on the compression level.
The first thing you will notice when you first put on compression stockings is reduced swelling. They do take some getting used to, but they will make you feel so much better!
We carry Mediven, Sigvaris, Coviden and SAI Therapeutic brands in hundreds of sizes, styles, colors and types! We have awesome prices too!
Call us at 800-873-7121 and we will be happy to help you feel better today!
Compression Sockings help your circulatory system work like it should by pushing dilated vein walls back into place. The result is increased blood flow which, in turn, significantly reduces leg swelling, pain, fatigue and risk of blood clot formation.
Compression stockings are available in different levels of compression and the unit used to classify compression stockings is mmHg, or manometric units of pressure. These stockings are made of elastic fibers or rubber and have higher compression at the ankle, where veins are the weakest and swelling usually is worse, and gradually lower compression up the leg.
Compression stockings can be used for diseases such as Deep Vein Thrombosis, Diabetes and Venous Disorders. Medical stockings usually require a prescription from your doctor since exact compression fit is critical.
Compression Stockings can also be used for travel related swelling, during pregnancy, for prevention of vericose veins and by athletes.
You will need to be professionally fitted for compression stockings and the best time to do this is early in the morning, when swelling is at its lowest. Stockings also wear out after about six months, so its important to get new ones regularly to achieve the desired benefit. Stockings start around $10 per pair and go up to around $50, depending on the compression level.
The first thing you will notice when you first put on compression stockings is reduced swelling. They do take some getting used to, but they will make you feel so much better!
We carry Mediven, Sigvaris, Coviden and SAI Therapeutic brands in hundreds of sizes, styles, colors and types! We have awesome prices too!
Call us at 800-873-7121 and we will be happy to help you feel better today!
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Kindness of "Strangers"
Late Last week, a coworker came up to me and told me about the sweetest lady who came into our store to get compression stockings. She was having significant pain and very obvious swelling and distortion in her lower legs.
My coworker measured her legs and found her the proper size and compression of stockings. Since this sweet woman was unable to apply the stockings herself, my coworker went into the restroom with her and applied them for her.
During their casual conversation, my coworker inquired as to who the two people were that brought her to our store. As it turns out, the couple happened to be her landlords. My coworker was taken back by this - such kindness from essential "strangers"!
The sweet woman was delighted in the immediate relief she felt in her legs - the stockings worked! This couple took an hour out of their day to help an elderly tenant to live a better life.
My coworker simply said "Its things like this that really make me love what I do!"
My coworker measured her legs and found her the proper size and compression of stockings. Since this sweet woman was unable to apply the stockings herself, my coworker went into the restroom with her and applied them for her.
During their casual conversation, my coworker inquired as to who the two people were that brought her to our store. As it turns out, the couple happened to be her landlords. My coworker was taken back by this - such kindness from essential "strangers"!
The sweet woman was delighted in the immediate relief she felt in her legs - the stockings worked! This couple took an hour out of their day to help an elderly tenant to live a better life.
My coworker simply said "Its things like this that really make me love what I do!"
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Mobility Scooters - I'll Race Ya!
If I ever cant walk as fast as I want (and I regularly have been told to "slow down!") I will get me a shiney red mobility scooter! Two years ago, we entered our company in a parade and we featured two scooter riders and one walker. Guess who rode one of the scooters? And guess who had the fastest scooter of the two? G'head...guess!
Purchasing a new scooter can be daunting, and pricey, but it doesnt have to be. So, I put together a list for you!
Here are 5 things to consider when shopping for a scooter:
1) Size of the scooter: Do you need something light that disassembles easily so you can travel with it?
2) Stability of the scooter: Do you need a 3 or 4 wheeled scooter? What is the weight capacity you need?
3) How often will you use the scooter? Consider the charge capacity/run time, turning radius and the scooters speed (VERY important to this blogger).
4) Reliability - Ask your dealer if one brand is more reliable than another. Do some consumer research on your top three choices.
5) What is your budget? Shop around for the best price - you can easily save hundreds of dollars by making a few phone calls!
Our scooters start at just $895! Like our favorite scooter manufacturer, Pride Mobility says, "Momma's got a brand new ride!"
P.S. We dont like to sell anything that comes back for repairs, so you know Our scooters are awesome!
Purchasing a new scooter can be daunting, and pricey, but it doesnt have to be. So, I put together a list for you!
Here are 5 things to consider when shopping for a scooter:
1) Size of the scooter: Do you need something light that disassembles easily so you can travel with it?
2) Stability of the scooter: Do you need a 3 or 4 wheeled scooter? What is the weight capacity you need?
3) How often will you use the scooter? Consider the charge capacity/run time, turning radius and the scooters speed (VERY important to this blogger).
4) Reliability - Ask your dealer if one brand is more reliable than another. Do some consumer research on your top three choices.
5) What is your budget? Shop around for the best price - you can easily save hundreds of dollars by making a few phone calls!
Our scooters start at just $895! Like our favorite scooter manufacturer, Pride Mobility says, "Momma's got a brand new ride!"
P.S. We dont like to sell anything that comes back for repairs, so you know Our scooters are awesome!
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Better Living Corner - Switching Ostomy Products
Jake recently called and asked about switching ostomy systems to something that works better.
We frequently have customers call that are having problems with their current ostomy systems but are apprehensive about switching.
Most ostomy patients are given a specific pouching system while in the hospital, and little do people know, some hospitals work with only one ostomy supply manufacturer. There are so many options available to ostomates, there is no reason anyone should tolerate a system that works poorly. Any long term ostomate will tell you that it is normal for your body to change as it heals and it will also change over time.
We recommend the following when considering a change:
1) Speak with your Wound & Ostomy Care Nurse (WOCN) and they can help make recommendations for your specific needs.
2) Speak with your ostomy supplier for more specific product information - they should be product experts.
3) Research manufacturer websites. If you find some products you want to try, request free samples - they are always happy to send them.
4) Once you find a new product and you need your insurance to cover the cost, you will need a new prescription from your doctor. If you are paying out of pocket, you wont need one.
5) Shop around for the best price, and also find yourself a local supplier in the event you need supplies in a pinch.
The three major manufacturers are:
Coloplast Website, 800-788-0293
ConvaTec Website, 800-844-8811
Hollister Website, 888-740-8999
Of course Mountain View offers a HUGE selection of Ostomy Supplies
We frequently have customers call that are having problems with their current ostomy systems but are apprehensive about switching.
Most ostomy patients are given a specific pouching system while in the hospital, and little do people know, some hospitals work with only one ostomy supply manufacturer. There are so many options available to ostomates, there is no reason anyone should tolerate a system that works poorly. Any long term ostomate will tell you that it is normal for your body to change as it heals and it will also change over time.
We recommend the following when considering a change:
1) Speak with your Wound & Ostomy Care Nurse (WOCN) and they can help make recommendations for your specific needs.
2) Speak with your ostomy supplier for more specific product information - they should be product experts.
3) Research manufacturer websites. If you find some products you want to try, request free samples - they are always happy to send them.
4) Once you find a new product and you need your insurance to cover the cost, you will need a new prescription from your doctor. If you are paying out of pocket, you wont need one.
5) Shop around for the best price, and also find yourself a local supplier in the event you need supplies in a pinch.
The three major manufacturers are:
Coloplast Website, 800-788-0293
ConvaTec Website, 800-844-8811
Hollister Website, 888-740-8999
Of course Mountain View offers a HUGE selection of Ostomy Supplies
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Bicyclists Beware!
I can just feel myself thawing with the earth now that warmer weather is upon us! And this means longer days and more daylight. This also means that in the great state of Colorado, specifically Boulder county, there are a ton more bicyclists on the road.
And I learned something new yesterday afternoon about bicyclists and their bicycle shorts. As I was sitting at a light waiting for it to turn green, a biker rode up next to me and stopped. We were facing east, which means the sun was shining itself mightily on this mans back and rear end. (Dont say you dont look, because you know you do!)
Anyway, what I learned is that bicycle shorts DO wear out. With the sun at this particular angle and the close proximity of this biker, I was able to clearly see his rear end through his washed-one-too-many-times shorts. Im not kidding.
So, bikers, I advise you to hold your shorts up to a light and verify if new ones need to be purchased before heading out this riding season.
Also, if you crash, we have wound care supplies that will fix you right up! You might even want to create a "road rash kit": Click Here for Wound Care Supplies At GREAT Prices!
And I learned something new yesterday afternoon about bicyclists and their bicycle shorts. As I was sitting at a light waiting for it to turn green, a biker rode up next to me and stopped. We were facing east, which means the sun was shining itself mightily on this mans back and rear end. (Dont say you dont look, because you know you do!)
Anyway, what I learned is that bicycle shorts DO wear out. With the sun at this particular angle and the close proximity of this biker, I was able to clearly see his rear end through his washed-one-too-many-times shorts. Im not kidding.
So, bikers, I advise you to hold your shorts up to a light and verify if new ones need to be purchased before heading out this riding season.
Also, if you crash, we have wound care supplies that will fix you right up! You might even want to create a "road rash kit": Click Here for Wound Care Supplies At GREAT Prices!
Monday, March 1, 2010
Plan Some Summer Do-Gooding
If you have never done a walk, run, triathlon or even bowling to raise money and help others, you are missing out on something wonderful!
I remember the first time I walked for the Susan G. Komen Foundation in Denver, Colorado. Everyone wore pink in some form or fashion and at 35,000 strong, it was simply breathtaking and inspiring!
This summer round up friends, family and even a bowling ball in some cases, and plan to get some exercise, have fun and raise some money! Here are just a few to get you started.
Get Your Guts In Gear
This is a 3-day, 210 mile bike ride to benefit Crohn’s, colitis and ostomy communities across the nation. You can ride, volunteer, crew, donate or sponsor one of three location rides taking place this year. Visit IDBRide.org or call 888-446-8488 for more information.
Avon Walk for Breast Cancer is a two day, 39 mile walk hosted in nine different locations across the country starting in April and ending in October. You can walk, volunteer, crew or donate. Visit AvonWalk.org or call 888-540-9855.
The Susan G. Komen for the Cure has the largest series of 5K run/walks in the world and is now over 25 years strong. Donate, take action, become an advocate or shop with a purpose and 25% of your purchase benefits the fight against breast cancer.
For more information visit Komen.org or call 877-465-6636.
Walk MS features 600 walks across the country. Colorado alone hosts 9 different walks that feature a 1 or 3 mile easy route. To search for walks near you, visit Walkms.org, or call 800-344-4867 for more information.
The Muscular Dystrophy Association, aka Jerry’s Kids, most notably has a telethon each Labor Day weekend. As one of the largest benefit organizations, they are able to help promote smaller fundraising events that local citizens offer to host. For instance, you can organize and host a Hop-a-Thon® for area elementary schools. Your corporation can also sponsor and host bowling, golf, lock-ups and more. Its great business exposure while also doing a good deed! Visit MDA.org to find your local representative or call 800-572-1717 for more information.
The Nation’s Triathlon is held in Washington D.C. and benefits the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. This September event is only 4 years old and raised $2.4 million last year alone. Visit TheNationsTriathlon.com for more information.
I remember the first time I walked for the Susan G. Komen Foundation in Denver, Colorado. Everyone wore pink in some form or fashion and at 35,000 strong, it was simply breathtaking and inspiring!
This summer round up friends, family and even a bowling ball in some cases, and plan to get some exercise, have fun and raise some money! Here are just a few to get you started.
Get Your Guts In Gear
This is a 3-day, 210 mile bike ride to benefit Crohn’s, colitis and ostomy communities across the nation. You can ride, volunteer, crew, donate or sponsor one of three location rides taking place this year. Visit IDBRide.org or call 888-446-8488 for more information.
Avon Walk for Breast Cancer is a two day, 39 mile walk hosted in nine different locations across the country starting in April and ending in October. You can walk, volunteer, crew or donate. Visit AvonWalk.org or call 888-540-9855.
The Susan G. Komen for the Cure has the largest series of 5K run/walks in the world and is now over 25 years strong. Donate, take action, become an advocate or shop with a purpose and 25% of your purchase benefits the fight against breast cancer.
For more information visit Komen.org or call 877-465-6636.
Walk MS features 600 walks across the country. Colorado alone hosts 9 different walks that feature a 1 or 3 mile easy route. To search for walks near you, visit Walkms.org, or call 800-344-4867 for more information.
The Muscular Dystrophy Association, aka Jerry’s Kids, most notably has a telethon each Labor Day weekend. As one of the largest benefit organizations, they are able to help promote smaller fundraising events that local citizens offer to host. For instance, you can organize and host a Hop-a-Thon® for area elementary schools. Your corporation can also sponsor and host bowling, golf, lock-ups and more. Its great business exposure while also doing a good deed! Visit MDA.org to find your local representative or call 800-572-1717 for more information.
The Nation’s Triathlon is held in Washington D.C. and benefits the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. This September event is only 4 years old and raised $2.4 million last year alone. Visit TheNationsTriathlon.com for more information.
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