When should an indwelling urinary catheter be placed?

An indwelling urinary catheter should be placed when it is appropriate and for specific medical indications. This approach ensures that the catheter is used judiciously and only in circumstances where it provides clear clinical benefits. For example, it may be indicated in cases of urinary retention, certain surgical procedures, or when there is a need for accurate urine output monitoring in patients who are critically ill.

Placing an indwelling catheter solely to manage incontinence is not considered appropriate due to the increased risk of urinary tract infections and other complications associated with catheter use. Routine catheterization for all residents is unnecessary and potentially harmful, as it exposes them to risks without medical justification. Similarly, placing catheters after every surgery, regardless of necessity, disregards the importance of individualized patient care and can lead to preventable complications. Therefore, the practice of placing an indwelling urinary catheter should always be guided by specific clinical needs rather than routine or blanket applications.