American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What is one of the indications for urinary catheterization?

1. Routine monitoring in non-critically ill patients

2. Perioperative use for certain surgeries

3. Chronic urinary incontinence management

4. Normal post-surgery recovery

The correct answer is: Perioperative use for certain surgeries

Urinary catheterization is indicated in various clinical situations, and one significant indication is its perioperative use for certain surgeries. During surgical procedures, particularly those that involve the urinary tract, the bladder may need to be drained to ensure that the surgical site remains free of urine, which can complicate healing and increase the risk of infection. Additionally, in surgeries that last for a prolonged period or that involve general anesthesia, a catheter may be placed to facilitate the monitoring of urine output, which is an important aspect of evaluating a patient's fluid status and kidney function postoperatively. In contrast, routine monitoring in non-critically ill patients is generally not a valid indication for catheterization, as it can introduce risks of urinary tract infections and other complications without providing significant clinical benefit. Similarly, managing chronic urinary incontinence typically involves other treatments and interventions rather than routine catheterization. Normal post-surgery recovery might not necessitate catheter placement unless there was a specific surgical indication, as many patients can void normally after surgery without the need for a catheter. Thus, the use of a catheter during the perioperative period is a well-recognized and appropriate indication in various surgical contexts.