Where is a catheter typically inserted?

The urethral meatus is the correct location for catheter insertion. This opening, located at the end of the urethra, is where a catheter is inserted to gain access to the bladder for drainage of urine. This procedure is commonly performed to assist patients who are unable to urinate on their own due to various medical conditions.

By inserting the catheter through the urethral meatus, the healthcare provider ensures that the catheter is placed into the urinary tract, allowing for the effective removal of urine from the bladder. This method is typically preferred over other types of catheterization, such as suprapubic catheterization, where a catheter is inserted directly into the bladder through a small incision in the abdomen.

Understanding the anatomy and the correct pathway for catheter insertion is crucial for maintaining patient safety and preventing complications such as infections or injury to the urinary tract.