Kateterplacering

Kateterplacering is the medical procedure of inserting a catheter, a thin flexible tube, into the body for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. This is commonly done to drain urine from the bladder, a process known as urinary catheterization. It can be necessary for patients who are unable to empty their bladder naturally due to medical conditions, surgery, or as a monitoring tool for fluid balance.

The procedure is typically performed by a trained healthcare professional in a sterile environment to minimize the risk of infection. Before insertion, the area around the urethral opening is cleansed. Lubricant is applied to the catheter to ease its passage. For male patients, the penis is held perpendicular to the body before insertion. For female patients, the labia are separated. The catheter is gently advanced until urine begins to flow, indicating it has reached the bladder. It is then advanced a short distance further before being secured in place.

Catheterization can also be used in other parts of the body, such as placing a central venous catheter to administer medication or fluids directly into a large vein, or a nasogastric tube for feeding or draining stomach contents. The duration of catheterization varies depending on the medical need, and indwelling catheters are typically changed regularly to prevent complications. Potential risks include urinary tract infections, bladder irritation, and, rarely, trauma to the urethra.