The structure and functions of a urinary catheter are as follows:

1. Structure

The urinary catheter is mainly composed of a tube body, a balloon and a connector.

Tube body: Usually a slender tubular structure with a certain degree of elasticity and softness to ensure smooth insertion into the urethra and reduce patient discomfort.

Balloon: Located at one end of the tube, it is usually an inflatable balloon. After the catheter is inserted into the bladder, an appropriate amount of liquid (such as saline) is injected into the balloon to expand and fix it in the bladder to prevent the catheter from falling off.

Connector: Connects to the other end of the catheter and is used to connect a drainage bag or other device to collect and measure urine.

2. Function

The main function of a urinary catheter is to help patients urinate. It is especially suitable for patients who are unable to urinate on their own due to various reasons, such as after surgery, bedridden, neurogenic bladder, etc. Draining urine from the bladder through a urinary catheter can reduce patient pain and complications, such as urinary retention and urinary tract infections. At the same time, by monitoring the amount and nature of urine, doctors can also understand changes in the patient's kidney function and condition, providing a basis for treatment.

Urinary catheters can be divided into single-lumen, double-lumen and triple-lumen catheters according to their structure. Among them, single-lumen urinary catheters are mainly used for temporary urinary catheterization or short-term indwelling urinary catheters; in addition to the function of draining urine, double-lumen urinary catheters also have an independent channel for injecting liquid into the balloon. , so as to be better fixed in the bladder; the three-lumen catheter has an additional flushing channel, which can be used for bladder flushing to prevent complications such as urinary tract infection.

It should be noted that when using a urinary catheter, the principle of sterility must be strictly followed, the urinary catheter and drainage bag must be replaced regularly, and the urethral opening and perineum must be kept clean to prevent complications such as urinary tract infection. At the same time, it is also necessary to closely observe the patient's condition changes and urine conditions, and adjust treatment plans and nursing measures in a timely manner.