====== Indwelling urinary catheter ======

In urinary catheterization a [[latex]], [[polyurethane]], or [[silicone]] tube known as a [[urinary catheter]] is inserted into a patient's [[bladder]] via the [[urethra]]. Catheterization allows the patient's [[urine]] to drain freely from the [[bladder]] for collection. It may be used to inject liquids used for treatment or diagnosis of bladder conditions. A clinician, often a nurse, usually performs the procedure, but self-catheterization is also possible. The catheter may be a permanent one ([[Indwelling urinary catheter]]), or an intermittent catheter removed after each catheterization.

A Foley catheter is retained by means of a balloon at the tip that is inflated with sterile water. The balloons typically come in two different sizes: 5 cm3 and 30 cm3. They are commonly made in silicone rubber or natural rubber.

===== Indications =====

[[Indwelling urinary catheter indications]].