What is a catheter used for?

A catheter is specifically designed as a tube that facilitates the drainage or injection of fluids through a body opening. This can include various applications such as urinary catheters, which help in draining urine from the bladder, or intravenous (IV) catheters, which are used to deliver medications or fluids directly into the bloodstream. This function is crucial in managing patient care, especially in those who may be unable to urinate independently or require liquid administration for treatment.

In contrast, the other options describe different medical tools or procedures that serve various purposes unrelated to the function of a catheter. For instance, measuring blood pressure involves the use of a sphygmomanometer rather than a catheter. Surgical procedures encompass a broad range of interventions, but catheters are not categorized as surgeries themselves. Supporting a fracture is typically achieved with casts or splints, rather than through the use of a catheter.