Which term describes a urinary catheter that remains in place and is sometimes called an indwelling catheter?

Which term describes a urinary catheter that remains in place and is sometimes called an indwelling catheter?

• A. Retention catheter
• B. Straight catheter
• C. External catheter
• D. Intermittent catheter

Answer: (A)

A catheter that remains in the bladder to drain urine over time is called a retention catheter. It is designed to stay in place, typically anchored by an inflatable balloon inside the bladder, which allows continuous drainage into a collection bag. This is why it’s also described as an indwelling catheter. By contrast, a straight catheter is used for a single drainage event and is removed afterward; an external catheter sits outside the body; and an intermittent catheter is used at intervals rather than staying in place.

A catheter that remains in the bladder to drain urine over time is called a retention catheter. It is designed to stay in place, typically anchored by an inflatable balloon inside the bladder, which allows continuous drainage into a collection bag. This is why it’s also described as an indwelling catheter. By contrast, a straight catheter is used for a single drainage event and is removed afterward; an external catheter sits outside the body; and an intermittent catheter is used at intervals rather than staying in place.