urinekatheters

Urinekatheters (urinary catheters) are flexible tubes inserted into the bladder to drain urine. They may be placed through the urethra (urethral catheter) or through the abdominal wall into the bladder (suprapubic catheter). Catheters can be used for short-term drainage or long-term management and may be left in place as indwelling devices, or used intermittently and removed after each use.

Common indications include urinary retention, the need to measure urine output in acutely ill patients, during surgery or certain medical procedures, urinary incontinence when other methods fail, and palliative care. They are not appropriate for routine management of everyday incontinence and should be used only when benefits outweigh risks.

Indwelling catheters, such as Foley catheters, remain in the bladder via an inflatable retention balloon. Intermittent catheters are inserted to drain the bladder and removed after use. Suprapubic catheters are placed through a small abdominal incision. Sizes are expressed in French units (Fr); typical adult catheters range from about 12 to 16 Fr.

Materials include latex, silicone, and hydrogel-coated latex. Latex allergy considerations apply. Catheter length and sterile technique are important for infection prevention. A closed drainage system with a collection bag kept below the bladder reduces infection risk. Securement devices minimize urethral movement; regular hygiene prevents skin irritation.

Complications include catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI), urethral trauma, encrustation and blockage, bladder spasms, urethral strictures, and rarely bladder perforation. Prevention focuses on limiting use and duration, using aseptic technique, maintaining a closed system, proper bag management, and timely catheter removal when no longer needed.