What is a key function of catheter usage in healthcare?

The key function of catheter usage in healthcare is to assist in urine collection. Catheters are medical devices used to drain urine from the bladder, which can be essential for patients who are unable to do so naturally due to various medical conditions or after certain surgical procedures.

This function is crucial as it helps ensure that the bladder is emptied regularly, which can prevent complications such as urinary retention or infection. Proper management of fluid output is particularly important in care settings, as it allows healthcare providers to monitor a patient's urinary function and overall hydration status.

Other options, such as providing intravenous nutrition, administering blood transfusions, or applying dressings on wounds, describe different medical interventions that do not involve catheterization. Each of these processes requires specialized equipment and techniques that are distinct from the role of catheters in urinary management. Therefore, understanding the specific purpose of catheters is vital for their appropriate use in patient care.