What is the primary goal of urinary catheterization?

The primary goal of urinary catheterization is primarily centered around bladder decompression. This involves alleviating urinary retention or obstruction, allowing for the complete emptying of the bladder. While monitoring urinary output is a significant aspect of catheterization, it serves as a secondary goal since consistent monitoring can provide vital information regarding kidney function and fluid balance, particularly in hospitalized patients.

In many clinical scenarios, such as during surgery or in cases of urinary retention, the immediate purpose of placing a catheter is to ensure that the bladder can be drained effectively, alleviating pressure and preventing potential damage or complications associated with prolonged retention. Monitoring output becomes a key part of the overall management plan, but it is deeply connected to the underlying goal of relieving urinary pressure through catheterization.

Administering medication is not typically a primary function of catheterization; medication administration via catheter can occur but is not the main intent of this procedure. Similarly, while preventing urinary tract infections is an important consideration in the use of catheters, the act of catheterization itself is not primarily aimed at preventing such infections, as the presence of a catheter can actually increase the risk.