What is an indwelling catheter primarily used for?

An indwelling catheter is primarily utilized for constant urine drainage from the bladder. This type of catheter is designed to be inserted and left in place over a period of time, allowing for uninterrupted outflow of urine. This is particularly beneficial for patients who may have difficulty urinating on their own, whether due to medical conditions, surgeries, or other health issues.

The design of the indwelling catheter often includes a balloon at the tip, which is inflated once the catheter is in the bladder. This balloon prevents the catheter from slipping out, ensuring that urine can continuously drain into a collection bag. This ongoing drainage helps in managing urine output effectively, minimizes the risk of bladder distention, and alleviates discomfort for the patient.

In contrast, the other options do not capture the primary function of an indwelling catheter. While temporary bladder support or tools used in surgical procedures have their roles, they pertain to different aspects of urinary care and do not represent the primary purpose of an indwelling catheter, which is focused on facilitating ongoing urine drainage.