Foley catheter balloon size difference

Nurses General Nursing

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:nurse: Hello, I have a question regarding Foley catheter balloon size : what is the difference between lets say Fr 18/10 cc and 18/30 cc. Especially when it comes to suprapubic catheter. I would appreciate your knowledge :rolleyes:

The 18 fr is the size of the catheter, and 10 cc is the size of the balloon, the amount of fluid that it should hold. Same goes for the 18 fr with the 30 cc balloon.

The 18 fr is the size of the catheter, and 10 cc is the size of the balloon, the amount of fluid that it should hold. Same goes for the 18 fr with the 30 cc balloon.

well, actually my question is the difference between baloon sizes, is it that significant. Lets say, I have an order to change suprapubic catheter but Pt has Fr 18/10 cc. Is that ok to put Fr 18/30 ???:specs:

Not sure why you would want to use a 30 cc balloon for a suprapubic catheter unless there has been issue with them coming out.............yes, there is a significant difference in the balloon size, 3x. And it could cause extra pressure.

I suggest that you contact the physician and get his/her okay on it....there should not be a problem per se, but when you change once catheter for another, it is usually supposed to be the same size. There may be a specific reason that the physician only wants a 10 cc balloon, so it is best to check with them.

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