Managing complex care needs with professionalism, compassion, and skilled attention.

Living with an ostomy, catheter, or suprapubic device requires specialized care and consistent monitoring to ensure comfort, safety, and dignity. Our skilled nursing team provides expert support in managing these devices, focusing on infection prevention, proper maintenance, and individualized care routines. We work closely with patients and families to ease daily challenges, offering education and guidance to build confidence in managing care at home. With patience and professionalism, we help individuals adapt while promoting independence and overall well-being.

Beyond technical expertise, our care is rooted in compassion and respect for each patient’s journey. We understand the emotional and physical adjustments that come with ostomy and catheter management, and our team is dedicated to offering reassurance and encouragement every step of the way. Combining clinical knowledge with genuine empathy creates a supportive environment where patients feel safe, understood, and cared for. Our goal is to bring both comfort and confidence to daily living.

Ostomy/ Indwelling/ Suprapubic Management: What Are They All About?

Living with an ostomy, an indwelling catheter, or a suprapubic device can feel overwhelming at first. Many people wonder: “How do I take care of this safely at home?” or “Will it affect my daily life?” These devices are designed to help your body function when certain medical conditions make normal urinary or bowel function challenging. While they are life-changing tools, they also require careful, consistent care to prevent complications and maintain comfort.

An ostomy is a surgically created opening in the abdomen that allows waste to leave the body. People with colostomies, ileostomies, or urostomies rely on this device to manage bowel or urinary function. Proper care includes monitoring for skin irritation, changing the pouch system regularly, and maintaining hygiene to prevent infection.

An indwelling catheter, often referred to as a Foley catheter, is a flexible tube inserted into the bladder to drain urine continuously. These devices are commonly used for people who have difficulty emptying their bladder due to illness, surgery, or chronic conditions. Managing an indwelling catheter involves keeping the area clean, preventing blockages, and checking for signs of infection.

A suprapubic catheter is similar, but is inserted directly into the bladder through the abdominal wall rather than through the urethra. This method can reduce discomfort and lower the risk of certain infections, but it also requires diligent care and monitoring. For patients seeking professional support, suprapubic management in Indianapolis, Indiana, can offer the guidance necessary to maintain device function safely while preserving comfort and independence.

Understanding these devices and learning how to manage them at home can feel daunting, but with the right guidance and support, patients can regain confidence and independence. Care isn’t just about the technical steps—it’s about adapting to a new normal with dignity, comfort, and assurance.

Ostomy/ Indwelling/ Suprapubic Management: What Can You Get?

When you work with skilled professionals, you can expect personalized support that focuses on both your physical and emotional well-being. Services may include:

  • Device Monitoring and Maintenance – Ensuring your ostomy or catheter functions properly, checking for leaks, blockages, or irritation, and making necessary adjustments.
  • Infection Prevention Guidance – Teaching safe hygiene practices to minimize the risk of infection, including cleaning techniques and observation for early warning signs.
  • Skin and Tissue Care – Protecting the skin around the device, preventing breakdown, and managing irritation or redness effectively.
  • Patient and Family Education – Offering clear instructions and demonstrations so you and your caregivers feel confident in managing daily routines safely.
  • Emotional Support and Reassurance – Helping patients adapt to lifestyle changes, reduce anxiety, and maintain dignity while adjusting to living with a medical device.

By addressing both the technical and emotional aspects of care, patients can live more comfortably and independently while feeling supported every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an ostomy and a catheter?
An ostomy is a surgically created opening for waste to exit the body, while a catheter is a tube inserted to drain urine. Both require daily care but serve different purposes.
How often should an ostomy pouch or catheter be changed?
The frequency depends on the type of device and your doctor’s instructions. Pouches usually need to be emptied multiple times a day and changed every few days, while catheters may require weekly or as-needed replacement.
Can I shower or bathe with a catheter or ostomy?
Yes. With proper precautions, most people can shower or bathe safely. It’s important to follow hygiene guidelines and protect the device from unnecessary moisture or movement.
What signs of infection should I watch for?
Look for redness, swelling, unusual odor, discharge, or fever. Contact a healthcare professional immediately if you notice any of these signs.
Can I manage these devices on my own at home?
Many patients can with proper education and guidance. Learning correct techniques and having a clear plan for emergencies helps build confidence and independence.
How do I prevent skin irritation around an ostomy or catheter site?
Keep the area clean and dry, use barrier creams as advised, and ensure devices fit properly. Changing pouches or catheters as recommended also reduces irritation.
Will having an ostomy or catheter limit my daily activities?
Most people can maintain normal activities, including work, exercise, and travel, with proper device management. Support and education help you adapt while living comfortably.

Expert Care for Every Need!

Rediscover comfort and confidence at home with care designed around you—contact us today and let our team bring trusted support to your doorstep. Your well-being can’t wait, and neither should you.