Have you ever looked at your catheter supplies and wondered what all those symbols mean?
Medical device symbols are standardized symbols regulated by the FDA that can be found on a variety of medical supplies, including catheters, that help convey important information to users, no matter what language.
Top 10 Most Common Medical Device Symbols for Catheters
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Single-use / Do not re-use Indicates the catheter is intended for one use. |
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Lot / Batch Number Indicates the manufacturer’s lot code so that the batch or lot can be identified. |
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REF / Catalogue number Indicates the manufacturer’s catalogue number (item number) so that the catheter can be identified. The item number can be used when reordering supplies. |
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Use-by date Indicates the date after which the catheter should not be used. |
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Prescription Use Only Indicates the date after which the catheter should not be used. |
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Does not contain DEHP Indicates the catheter that does not contain the phthalate plasticizers DEHP. |
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Not made with natural rubber latex Indicates that neither the catheter nor its packaging contains the presence of natural rubber latex. |
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Sterilized by ethylene oxide treatment Indicates a medical device that has been sterilized using ethylene oxide. |
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Do not use if package is damaged Indicates the product should not be used if the package has been damaged or opened. |
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Consult instructions for use Indicates the need for the user to consult the instructions for use |
If you have a question about a symbol on your catheter supplies, please feel free to contact us!