Who is permitted to perform a straight catheter or Foley catheter insertion?

Who is permitted to perform a straight catheter or Foley catheter insertion?

• A. Only an RN
• B. A licensed practical nurse may perform under supervision
• C. A physician must perform
• D. A family member may perform with supervision

Answer: (A)

Inserting a catheter is an invasive procedure that requires sterile technique and clinical judgment. Because of the potential risks and the need for proper asepsis, the procedure is within the licensed nurse’s scope of practice in most care settings. An RN has the training to perform straight catheterization or Foley catheter insertion, including maintaining the sterile field, choosing the correct catheter, and recognizing or managing any immediate complications. Family members or unlicensed individuals are not permitted to perform this procedure due to safety and policy concerns.

Inserting a catheter is an invasive procedure that requires sterile technique and clinical judgment. Because of the potential risks and the need for proper asepsis, the procedure is within the licensed nurse’s scope of practice in most care settings. An RN has the training to perform straight catheterization or Foley catheter insertion, including maintaining the sterile field, choosing the correct catheter, and recognizing or managing any immediate complications. Family members or unlicensed individuals are not permitted to perform this procedure due to safety and policy concerns.