PureWick External Catheter for Women-Wick Product Usage: A flexible, contoured external cath...
FDA Device Recall #Z-1485-2017 — Class II — February 24, 2016
Recall Summary
| Recall Number | Z-1485-2017 |
| Classification | Class II — Moderate risk |
| Date Initiated | February 24, 2016 |
| Status | Terminated |
| Voluntary | Voluntary: Firm initiated |
Recalling Firm
| Firm | Purewick Corporation |
| Location | El Cajon, CA |
| Product Type | Devices |
| Quantity | 176,863 units |
Product Description
PureWick External Catheter for Women-Wick Product Usage: A flexible, contoured external catheter (a Wick) is positioned between the labia and gluteus muscles. The function of the Wick is to draw urine away from the body through the Wick to a storage container away from the body through a PVC tube via a continuous, low pressure vacuum pump (PureWick DryDoc) or to a hospital wall vacuum. There is never a reversal of flow direction or static state of fluid between the device and the patient. Also, the dry natural rubber component is double wrapped with 75D polyester and it is not stretched in its application to expose bare rubber to a user. The Wick does not enter the vagina (Figure 1).
Reason for Recall
PureWick is recalling external catheter for women Wicks because the labeling did not contain the phrase "This product contains dry natural rubber" and/or erroneously included the phrase "Latex-free." The white gauze component of the PureWick contains dry natural rubber.
Distribution Pattern
US: Nationwide Distribution
Lot / Code Information
Item # 625
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact your healthcare provider and the device manufacturer immediately. Check whether your specific model number and lot number are included in the recall scope. For external devices, stop using the affected product and arrange a replacement. For implanted devices, do not panic — removal is typically not required unless the risk assessment clearly indicates it. Your physician will guide you based on your individual clinical situation and the FDA's recommended actions. Report any adverse effects you may have experienced to FDA MedWatch at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Class I recalls indicate a reasonable probability of serious adverse health consequences or death from the defect. Class II recalls involve products that may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences, or where serious consequences are remote. Class III recalls cover products not likely to cause any adverse health consequences, typically involving technical regulatory violations. The classification guides urgency — Class I recalls require immediate action, while Class III may simply involve returning a product or acknowledging a labeling change. Always read the specific recall notice for recommended patient actions.
Report problems with medical devices to the FDA through MedWatch at 1-800-FDA-1088 or online at FDA.gov/safety/medwatch. Healthcare facilities are required by law to report device-related serious injuries and deaths. Patients and consumers can also report voluntarily. Include the device name, manufacturer, model number, and a description of the problem and any patient outcome. Reports from patients and clinicians help the FDA identify emerging safety signals and may trigger investigations that lead to recalls of dangerous devices.
What Should You Do?
Stop using this device if you are affected by this recall. Contact your healthcare provider and the manufacturer immediately for guidance. Report adverse events to FDA MedWatch.