What is the purpose of a catheter?

A catheter's primary function is to permit the injection or withdrawal of fluids. This versatile medical instrument can be inserted into various parts of the body, such as the bladder or blood vessels, to deliver medications, fluids, or nutritional substances directly or to remove fluids such as urine or blood. In some cases, catheters are also used for diagnostic purposes, allowing healthcare providers to obtain samples or access to the body’s internal systems.

This ability to both inject liquids and withdraw them makes catheters crucial in numerous medical treatments and procedures, ensuring that necessary substances can be administered efficiently or excess fluids can be removed when needed. The other functions listed, while important, are not the primary purpose of a catheter. For example, removing waste from the blood typically requires dialysis, monitoring heart activity involves electrodes and ECG machines, and stabilizing fractures relates to orthopedic devices, not catheters.