What is the purpose of a catheter in medical practice?

The purpose of a catheter in medical practice is primarily to drain or inject fluid through a body opening. Catheters are flexible tubes that can be inserted into various parts of the body, such as veins, bladders, or arteries, to facilitate the delivery of fluids, medications, or to remove waste products. For example, urinary catheters are used to drain urine from the bladder, while intravenous (IV) catheters allow for the administration of medications and fluids directly into the bloodstream.

The versatility of catheters makes them invaluable in various medical situations, from routine procedures to critical care settings. They can also be employed in diagnostic procedures, such as inserting a catheter into the heart to measure pressures or obtain blood samples without needing to perform an incision. In contrast, the other options describe functions that are typically accomplished through different means or equipment, highlighting the specialized role that catheters play in medical practice.