What is a primary function of an indwelling catheter?

An indwelling catheter's primary function is to provide continuous drainage of the bladder. This is achieved by inserting a flexible tube into the bladder through the urethra, which allows urine to flow continuously into a collection bag. This is particularly important for patients who are unable to urinate on their own due to medical conditions, surgery, or other health issues. Continuous drainage helps prevent urinary retention, reduces the risk of infection, and helps manage fluid balance in patients who may require monitoring of their urine output.

The other options, while they may relate to various aspects of patient care, do not accurately describe the primary function of an indwelling catheter. For instance, aiding a patient in walking or facilitating bladder training does not align with the primary purpose of a catheter, which is primarily to manage urinary output. Similarly, while catheters may sometimes be involved in the administration of certain medications indirectly, this is not their main function. Understanding the role of indwelling catheters is crucial for proper patient care and management.