How Does Purewick Work? Step By Step

What Is the PureWick System?

The PureWick system consists of three main parts. The first is the single-use wick itself. This is a soft, absorbent pad attached to a thin tube. The second part is the collection canister, which holds the urine after it is removed. The third part is the vacuum pump, which connects to the canister and creates the gentle suction.

The wick is placed externally against the female anatomy. It does not enter the body. This is the key difference between PureWick and a standard Foley catheter, which is inserted through the urethra and into the bladder.

Because the device is external, it is often called a “female external catheter.” It is a brand-name product made by Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD). The technology is sometimes referred to as “external urinary management” in clinical settings.

How Does PureWick Work? Step By Step

The process begins with positioning. The person lies on their back with their legs bent and knees apart. A caregiver or the user herself places the soft wick between the labia. It must sit against the urethral opening but must never be pushed inside the vagina or urethra.

Once the wick is in place, the vacuum pump is turned on. The pump creates a continuous low-level suction, typically set within a specific pressure range. This suction pulls urine away from the body as soon as it is released. The urine travels through the tube and into the collection canister.

The pump runs continuously. It does not wait for the person to urinate. This means the system is always ready. When urine is released, it is immediately wicked away through the fabric and into the tubing. The skin remains dry because the urine does not pool against it.

The canister needs to be emptied regularly. Most systems have a full indicator or a clear measurement line. The wick itself is changed every 12 hours or as needed. The tubing and canister are disposed of according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Who Is PureWick Designed For?

PureWick is intended for women who cannot use a toilet independently. This includes people with limited mobility, advanced age, or certain medical conditions. It is also used for women who are bed-bound after surgery or during a prolonged hospital stay.

It is not designed for men. There is a separate male version, but the original PureWick is specifically shaped for female anatomy. The device is also not intended for long-term continuous use in all patients. Clinicians assess each person’s situation before recommending it.

The system is often considered when a traditional catheter is not necessary but the person still needs help managing urine output. For example, a woman with dementia who cannot communicate her need to use the bathroom might benefit. So might a woman recovering from hip surgery who cannot get out of bed.

What Are the Benefits Over a Standard Catheter?

The most significant benefit is the reduced risk of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs). Indwelling catheters are a leading cause of healthcare-acquired infections. Because PureWick does not enter the urethra, it avoids introducing bacteria directly into the bladder.

Another benefit is comfort. Many women report that the soft external pad is far less uncomfortable than an indwelling catheter. There is no balloon holding it in place and no tube running through the body.

The system also helps preserve skin integrity. Constant moisture from urine can break down the skin, leading to irritation, rashes, and pressure injuries. By keeping the area dry, PureWick reduces this risk.

Finally, it offers more dignity for the patient. The person does not need to be cleaned and changed as frequently. Caregivers spend less time on bedding changes and more time on other aspects of care.

Are There Any Risks or Limitations?

PureWick is not without risks. The most common issue is skin irritation or breakdown if the wick is not positioned correctly. If the wick shifts, urine can leak onto the skin. The suction can also cause irritation if the pressure is set too high.

There is also a risk of the wick being inserted incorrectly. It must remain external. If it is accidentally placed inside the vagina, it can cause discomfort or injury. Caregivers receive training on proper placement.

The device is not suitable for everyone. Women with certain skin conditions, open wounds, or severe anatomical changes may not be good candidates. A healthcare provider should always evaluate the person before starting use.

Another limitation is that the system requires a power source. The pump needs electricity or batteries. This is not an issue in a hospital, but it can be a consideration for home use during a power outage.

How Does PureWick Compare to Other Options?

The main alternatives are indwelling catheters, intermittent catheters, absorbent pads, and bedpans. Each has its own trade-offs.

Absorbent pads and briefs are the simplest option but they keep urine against the skin for long periods. This can lead to rashes and sores. Bedpans are labor-intensive for caregivers and uncomfortable for the patient. Indwelling catheters carry the highest infection risk but are necessary for some patients, such as those with urinary retention.

PureWick sits in the middle. It is more complex than a pad but less invasive than a catheter. For many women, it offers the best balance of comfort, dignity, and infection prevention.

What Does the Evidence Say About PureWick?

Clinical research on external female catheters is still emerging. Some studies have looked at patient satisfaction and skin outcomes compared to standard care. The results are generally positive but not definitive.

Some research suggests that external catheter systems reduce the incidence of CAUTIs compared to indwelling catheters. However, large-scale randomized trials are limited. Most published data comes from smaller observational studies or quality improvement projects within individual hospitals.

One area where evidence is clearer is patient comfort. Multiple studies have reported higher satisfaction scores with external catheters compared to indwelling catheters. Women report less pain and greater ease of movement.

The evidence on cost is mixed. The single-use wicks are not cheap, and the system requires ongoing supply. However, if the device prevents a single hospital-acquired infection, the cost savings can be substantial. A single CAUTI can add thousands of dollars to a hospital stay.

The bottom line is that PureWick is a promising technology, but it is not a miracle device. It works well for the right patient when used correctly. It is not appropriate for everyone, and clinicians should make the decision based on individual assessment.

How to Use PureWick at Home

Home use requires training. A nurse or healthcare provider should demonstrate the correct placement and pump settings before the person or caregiver takes over. The manufacturer provides detailed instructions, but hands-on training is strongly recommended.

The wick needs to be positioned correctly every time. It should sit flat against the skin with the tube exiting toward the thigh. The pump should be set to the lowest effective pressure. Higher pressure does not mean better performance; it only increases the risk of skin irritation.

The collection canister should be checked regularly. Most canisters hold between 500 and 1000 milliliters, depending on the model. The canister should be emptied when it reaches the fill line to prevent overflow or reduced suction.

Skin checks are essential. The area around the wick should be inspected at every change. Redness, rash, or open sores should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately. The wick should never stay in place longer than the manufacturer’s recommended time.