LO5 Urinary Catheterization

Question 1

Indwelling Catheter (foley catheter)

Answer 1

An indwelling catheter is a long pliable catheter that has an inflatable balloon on the distal end. The Foley catheter is the most commonly used indwelling catheter

only need to be changed every 2-4 weeks depending on the individual.

Question 2

Intermittent Catheter (straight catheter)

Answer 2

An intermittent catheter or an “in and out” catheter is a long ridged catheter that has no balloon at the distal end.

Intermittent catheters are designed to be inserted into the bladder through the urethra to drain the bladder and then they are removed.

These catheters are used when bladder drainage is needed such as prior to medical procedures or with patients with spinal cord injuries.

Question 3

Sizing

Answer 3

Adult Male = 18-20 F (16 is common)

Adult Female = 14-16 F

Children = 8-10 F

Question 4

indications for Removal of an Indwelling Urinary Catheter

Answer 4

1. Blood in the draining urine
   The catheter should only be removed if the patient is in severe pain or hemodynamically unstable
2. Patient attempts to forcefully remove the catheter
   If the catheter is partially removed by an inadvertent action, there will be severe pain as well as the possibility of bleeding
3. Patient is successful at forcefully removing the catheter
   This may result in severe pain and bleeding