Your mother's doctor would be the best source of diameter. Otherwise 16fr is the most common size used for adult hospital patients. Some people can use a 12-14 fr and some people require larger sizes for different reasons. A good starting point would be a 16fr. I would suggest you not use anything larger than a 16fr to start with. The smaller the catheter, the smaller the drainage eyelets. Smaller eyelets can become clogged more easily than larger eyelets. Catheters can clog from small blood clots, sloughed tissue from the bladder lining, etc. Smaller catheters are more prone to leakage. Diameter boils down to what is the most comfortable size that will do what you expect from it. For long term catheter users, it boils down to personal preference, but your doctor should approve your choice. The smallest size that will do what is expected of it is usually best. It's always best to consult with a doctor or other health care provider.

Answered on Jul 31, 2016 10:56:58 AM by Lynn from NW Arkansas