How are indwelling catheters characterized?

Indwelling catheters are characterized by being inserted into the bladder and left in place for an extended period, allowing for continuous drainage of urine. This feature distinguishes them from other types of catheters, such as straight catheters, which are designed for short-term use and only for immediate drainage during a single procedure. Indwelling catheters often have a balloon mechanism to help secure them in place within the bladder, ensuring that urine can drain freely over time without needing constant repositioning or replacement.

This is important for patients who are unable to empty their bladders due to various medical conditions, as it provides a means of managing urinary output effectively over longer durations. The incorrect options stem from misunderstandings of the function and application of indwelling catheters: they can indeed be used with drainage bags to collect urine, they are intended for more than just short-term use, and they are distinctly different from straight catheters, which are only used temporarily and removed after the bladder has been emptied.