What is a Foley catheter used for?

A Foley catheter is primarily designed as a flexible tube that is inserted through the urethra and into the bladder to facilitate the drainage of urine. This is particularly important for patients who may be unable to empty their bladder naturally due to various medical conditions or situations, such as post-surgery recovery, urinary retention, or certain neurological disorders. The catheter allows urine to be continuously drained and also enables healthcare providers to monitor urine output accurately, which can be essential for patient care.

In contrast, administering medication directly into the bladder, performing diagnostic tests on urine, or using the catheter for inserting surgical instruments are not its primary functions. Each of those options describes different medical procedures or tools that serve unique purposes, but they do not align with the fundamental role of a Foley catheter, which is specifically intended for urine drainage.