Resources For Veterans
For Veterans & Caregivers
For Clinicians
FAQs about the PureWick® Urine Collection System
1. Where does the urine go?
The PureWick® Collection Systems' pump draws voided urine through the collector tubing into the collection canister.
2. How much urine can the collection canister hold before it needs to be emptied?
The PureWick® Portable Collection System comes with a 2000cc (mL) canister which should be emptied before the volume reaches 1500cc (mL). The system will stop suctioning automatically at approximately 1800cc (mL).
The PureWick® Urine Collection System comes with a 2000cc (mL) canister which should be emptied before the volume reaches 1800cc (mL) or as needed.
3. Can I use the PureWick® Urine Collection System on my own?
Absolutely! The PureWick® Urine Collection System and PureWick® Portable Collection System are easy to set up,1 and the PureWick® External Catheters cand be placed in a few steps.
Watch this video to learn how to set up the PureWick® Portable Collection System.
Watch this video to learn how to set up the PureWick® Urine Collection System.
4. Is the PureWick® Urine Collection System quiet?
Users and caregivers agree that the PureWick® Urine Collection System is quiet enough to not disturb the user's sleep.2
5. Can I use the PureWick® Urine Collection System while it is charging?
Yes, the built-in battery recharges any time the device is plugged into an outlet and can be used during this time.
6. How does the battery charge?
The built-in battery on the PureWick® Urine Collection System and the PureWick® Portable Collection System recharges any time the device is plugged into an outlet.
To fully charge the battery of the PureWick® Urine Collection System, the system must be plugged in for 12 hours. To fully charge the battery of the PureWick® Portable Collection System, the system must be plugged in for 6 hours.
7. What is the size of the system?
The PureWick® Urine Collection System is 9″ x 6.5″ x 11″.
The PureWick® Portable Collection System is 11.5” x 5.75” x 9.25”.
8. Can I sanitize and reuse my PureWick® External Catheter?
No. The PureWick® Female External Catheter and the PureWick® Male External Catheter are designed for single-use only. Attempting to wash, sanitize, and/or reuse may contribute to a risk of infection or illness, and may compromise the structural integrity and materials of the catheter. This could contribute to device failure and user injury.
9. How much suction is coming from the PureWick® Urine Collection System and PureWick® Portable Collection System?
Approximately 120 mmHg to 140 mmHg.
10. How often should I clean the canister and tubing?
The collection canister, canister lid, collector tubing, and pump tubing should be cleaned and disinfected after each use.
Accessing the PureWick® Urine Collection Systems Through the VA
1. Are the PureWick® Collection Systems and PureWick® External Catheters available through the VA?
Yes! Veterans interested in the PureWick® Collection Systems should speak with their VA healthcare provider to determine whether it may be an appropriate option through their local VA healthcare system.
2. Do I need a prescription from a VA Healthcare provider to receive the PureWick® Collection Systems?
Yes. Veterans should consult their VA healthcare provider to determine whether the PureWick® Collection Systems may be appropriate for their individual needs and to understand any requirements specific to their VA facility.
3. Does the VA cover the cost of the PureWick® Collection Systems?
The PureWick® Collection Systems are covered by the VA when it is determined to be medically appropriate by a VA healthcare provider. Coverage and fulfillment processes can vary by facility and individual circumstances. Veterans should speak with their VA healthcare provider to understand eligibility requirements and next steps.
Get Your Free Patient Guide
Download your free patient guide to learn more about the PureWick® Collection Systems and how they may help you or a loved one who served manage UI at home.
This patient guide includes helpful information you can use to prepare for conversations with your VA healthcare team.
REFERENCES
- PureWick® User & Caregiver Survey (August 2020), Based on a survey of 324 respondents, (n=113 users, n=195 caregivers, n=16 answered “Not Sure”, Margin of Error = 5.2%), 93% of caregivers and 84% of users agree the PureWick® system is easy to set up. Respondents used the PureWick® Urine Collection System with the PureWick® Female External Catheter and re-ordered the PureWick® Female External Catheter at least once. The survey did not include users of the PureWick® Flex Female External Catheter due to it not being available in market at the time of the survey.
- PureWick® User & Caregiver Survey (August 2020), Based on a survey of 324 respondents, (n=112 users, n=196 caregivers, n=16 answered “Not Sure”, Margin of Error=5.2%) 76% of caregivers and 71% of users agree the PureWick® System is quiet enough to not disturb the user’s sleep. Respondents used the PureWick® Urine Collection System with the PureWick® Female External Catheter and re-ordered the PureWick® Female External Catheter at least once. The survey did not include users of the PureWick® Flex Female External Catheter due to it not being available in market at the time of the survey.
BD, the BD Logo and PureWick are trademarks of Becton, Dickinson and Company or its affiliates. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
©2026 BD. All rights reserved. BD-172371 (04/26)