From bladder to body: The workflow of a urinary catheter

Urinary catheter, the medical aid, plays a vital role in helping patients resolve urination difficulties. Its workflow, from the bladder to the outside of the body, demonstrates both the sophistication of medical technology and the meticulous care of medical staff.

Before the catheterization procedure, medical staff will thoroughly communicate with the patient or family, explaining the necessity and precautions of catheterization to ensure patient understanding and active cooperation. Then, preparations begin, including preparing necessary items such as disposable catheterization kits, sterile gloves, sterile syringes, sterile iodine, and sterile gauze, ensuring the sterility of all equipment to ensure patient safety.

The patient should lie flat on the bed, exposing the perineum for the procedure. After donning sterile gloves, the medical staff will thoroughly disinfect the urethral opening and surrounding area with an appropriate disinfectant, typically covering a 10-15 cm radius around the opening to ensure a sterile environment. After disinfection, a sterile drape is placed to further maintain sterility.

Next comes the catheter insertion process. The healthcare provider will apply a generous amount of lubricant to the catheter to minimize discomfort and carefully insert it through the external urethra into the bladder. For male patients, due to their longer urethra (approximately 18-20 cm), the catheter needs to be inserted deeper. For female patients, due to their shorter urethra (approximately 3-5 cm), the insertion depth is relatively short. Urine flowing from the catheter indicates successful entry into the bladder.

To ensure the catheter is securely in place, the healthcare provider will inject an appropriate amount of saline solution (usually 10-15 ml) through the catheter's balloon, inflating it and ensuring it adheres to the bladder wall, preventing the catheter from accidentally being dislodged. The catheter is then connected to a urine bag, which is hung below the bladder to collect the urine.

Throughout the catheterization process, medical staff closely monitor the patient's reactions and urine output, record relevant data, and make timely adjustments to ensure patient comfort and safety. After the catheterization is complete, medical staff will help the patient tidy up their clothes and respect their privacy.