Which scenario justifies the use of an indwelling urinary catheter?

Which scenario justifies the use of an indwelling urinary catheter?

• A. Urinary obstruction or retention
• B. Elderly, incontinent, or confused status
• C. To promote healing of a perineal wound
• D. For routine patient comfort in hospital

Answer: (A)

An indwelling urinary catheter is used when the bladder cannot empty on its own due to urinary obstruction or retention, to relieve the pressure, protect kidney function, and allow accurate measurement of urine output. In the scenario given, relieving obstruction or securing continuous drainage directly addresses the problem of an inability to void, which is why this is the best indication for catheterization. Using a catheter solely for routine comfort in hospital, to manage incontinence in elderly or confused patients, or to promote wound healing around a perineal area is not appropriate, as these scenarios expose patients to infection risk and do not treat the underlying issue.

An indwelling urinary catheter is used when the bladder cannot empty on its own due to urinary obstruction or retention, to relieve the pressure, protect kidney function, and allow accurate measurement of urine output. In the scenario given, relieving obstruction or securing continuous drainage directly addresses the problem of an inability to void, which is why this is the best indication for catheterization.

Using a catheter solely for routine comfort in hospital, to manage incontinence in elderly or confused patients, or to promote wound healing around a perineal area is not appropriate, as these scenarios expose patients to infection risk and do not treat the underlying issue.