Urinary Catheterization Flashcards
7 cards from real PCT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Urinary Catheterization flashcards as text
What is the primary purpose of an indwelling (Foley) urinary catheter?
Answer: To provide continuous drainage of urine from the bladder
An indwelling (Foley) catheter is designed to remain in the bladder and provide continuous urine drainage into a collection bag.
Before performing urinary catheterization, which of the following is the most important initial action?
Answer: Explain the procedure to the patient and obtain consent
Explaining the procedure and obtaining the patient's consent is always the first step before any invasive procedure to respect patient autonomy and rights.
How should the urinary drainage bag be positioned relative to the patient's bladder?
Answer: Below the level of the bladder to allow gravity drainage
The drainage bag must always be kept below the level of the bladder so gravity assists urine flow and prevents backflow, which could cause infection.
Which catheter size (French) is most commonly used for an adult female patient?
Answer: 14–16 Fr
A 14–16 French catheter is the standard size for most adult female patients, balancing adequate drainage with patient comfort.
What technique is required when inserting an indwelling urinary catheter?
Answer: Sterile technique to prevent urinary tract infection
Indwelling catheter insertion requires sterile technique because introducing a foreign object directly into the bladder creates a serious infection risk.
What solution is used to clean the urethral meatus before catheter insertion?
Answer: Normal saline or antiseptic solution per facility protocol
Normal saline or an antiseptic solution (such as povidone-iodine or chlorhexidine) is used per facility protocol to reduce the microbial load at the insertion site.
After the balloon of an indwelling catheter is inflated, what should the PCT do next?
Answer: Gently pull back on the catheter until resistance is felt to seat the balloon against the bladder neck
After inflating the balloon, gently pulling back until resistance is felt confirms the balloon is properly seated at the bladder neck, securing the catheter in place.