What does catheterization involve?

Catheterization specifically involves the insertion of a catheter into the body, often into the bladder, to assist with the drainage of urine. This procedure can be necessary for a variety of medical reasons, such as when a patient is unable to urinate naturally due to obstructions, certain medical conditions, or during and after surgeries. A catheter is a flexible tube that allows for the removal of urine from the bladder.

While the process may include other steps or considerations, such as maintaining or monitoring the catheter post-insertion, the primary aspect of catheterization is indeed the act of inserting the catheter itself. This is essential knowledge for Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) as they may be involved in assisting with this procedure under the supervision of licensed healthcare professionals.