Guideline Profile : Catheters and Incontinence accessories

From 8th September 2025, Surrey Heartlands Appliance Prescription Management Service (SHAPMS)  will take over the prescribing of all Urology (catheter-related), Stoma and Transanal Irrigation products from GPs. This includes long-term and intermittent self-catheterisation (ISC) catheters, sheaths, leg and night bags, transanal irrigation systems, stoma pouches and stoma accessories.” https://www.surreyprescriptionappliances.org/

Night bags

The Surrey Heartlands Area Prescribing Committee has agreed amended wording within the Continence Appliance Formulary in relation to night bags as follows:

• Single use night bags should be the first choice for all patients
• Some patients may prefer/require drainable night bags but it should be noted that organisational policies may vary so take advice from infection control if you have any queries
• All drainable night bags must be changed at least every seven days, in line with manufacturer’s guidelines. It should be noted some drainage bags are designed for longer use (up to 28 days for some belly bags).
• If the bag is contaminated or becomes disconnected, it must be changed for a new product even if this is earlier than the scheduled change
• Drainable products should not be rinsed/washed out.
• Night bag stands are supplied free of charge and should be requested at time of first order

Barrier creams - please refer to the Wound Management page for further information

Guideline Profile : Wound management - surrey.res.services