Catheterization

Purpose:

• Diagnostic: Catheterization may be performed to obtain urine samples directly from the bladder for diagnostic purposes, such as detecting infections, checking for blood in the urine, or analyzing chemical composition.
• Therapeutic: In certain medical conditions, catheterization can be used as a therapeutic intervention. For example, it may be employed to relieve urinary retention by draining urine from the bladder.

Procedure:

• The patient is positioned comfortably, usually lying down on an examination table.
• The area around the urethral opening is cleaned and sterilized.
• A lubricated catheter is carefully inserted through the urethra into the bladder.
• Once the catheter is in place, it allows for the drainage of urine or facilitates other medical interventions.

Types of Catheters:

• Foley Catheter: A common type of indwelling catheter that remains in the bladder and is held in place by a small balloon filled with sterile water.
• Intermittent Catheter: Used for short-term drainage and is inserted as needed.