URINARY CATHETERIZATION

A urinary catheter is a hollow, flexible, synthetic tube inserted into the urethra to allow the passage of urine. The urethra is the body's tube that connects the bladder to the outside of the body. Sometimes a person needs help ridding their body of urine. This may be because of a blockage, or because they cannot control their urination. When a catheter is in place, the urine flows freely into a collection bag.

There are several conditions that can lead to blockage. These include:

bladder stones
a swollen prostate gland
sagging pelvic organs in women or
medications that relax the bladder

A urinary blockage can be painful and dangerous if not treated promptly. By inserting a catheter into the bladder, the urine is released and the pressure subsides.

A blockage can also occur in the ureters. The ureters are the tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder. In this case, a simple catheter will not relieve the problem. Women often have transient blockage during childbirth. This is more likely if they receive an epidural painkiller.

Sometimes adult diapers may be used for those who cannot control their urination. Other times a catheter may be used. Some examples include:

cases of lower body paralysis
hospitalized patients who are bed bound and
during surgery.

Usually a catheter is left in the urethra for a short time only. People with long-term problems, such as paralysis, may need a permanent catheter. Other times, catheters are used on an "in-and-out" basis. This means they are inserted to empty the bladder on a routine schedule, then removed.

If you, or someone you care for, use a urinary catheter routinely, be sure to follow strict instructions to avoid urinary tract infections. If you have bladder urgency but cannot pass your urine, seek medical attention right away.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File URIN5266.rf2 VRS# 5266 Data Version 7.0