What is the main characteristic of a straight catheter?

A straight catheter is designed for intermittent use, which distinguishes it from other types of catheters. Its primary function is to drain urine from the bladder temporarily and is removed immediately after the procedure. This method is often used when a patient needs to empty the bladder but does not require a continuous drainage solution.

In contrast, choices that suggest the catheter is left in the bladder for ongoing drainage or used for long-term catheterization refer to types such as indwelling catheters, which are meant for extended use. The option regarding surgical insertion is also not applicable, as a straight catheter can typically be placed without surgical intervention, further reinforcing the primary characteristic of the straight catheter as being solely for temporary drainage.