What is the purpose of an indwelling urinary catheter?

An indwelling urinary catheter serves the primary purpose of collecting urine from the bladder continuously and over an extended period of time. This is achieved by inserting a catheter that typically remains in place for days, weeks, or even longer, depending on the patient's medical needs.

By ensuring that urine can be collected without requiring the patient to use a restroom, this catheter helps manage fluid balance, monitor kidney function, and prevent urinary retention or obstruction in patients who may not be able to void naturally due to various medical conditions or surgical procedures. The catheter is designed to stay securely in the bladder, allowing for consistent and reliable drainage of urine, which is essential for the assessment of a patient's urinary output and overall condition.

The other purposes listed—such as eliminating urine directly from the kidneys, monitoring bladder pressures, or providing medication delivery—are not the primary function of an indwelling urinary catheter, though urinary catheters may sometimes be utilized in conjunction with procedures related to those functions in specific medical settings.