A urethral catheter is a flexible plastic or latex tube which is inserted into the bladder via the urethra to drain urine, or instill medications into the bladder. When selecting the type of catheter, do so considering the reason for insertion, and the intended duration required. Aim to use the smallest size which will allow free urinary drainage, size 12, 14 for females. Larger sizes may be required if there is debris or blood clots, which may block a smaller diameter catheter. Ensure you use the correct length of catheter; female catheters are 22-26cm long. This is shorter than standard male catheters, as the female urethra is shorter. When inserting a urethral catheter, it is important to maintain an aseptic technique, in order to reduce the risk of introducing infection into the urinary tract. In this film, due to the sensitive nature, this procedure will be performed on a catheterisation simulator model.
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