Intensive Care Medicine (ICM) Practice Exam

What significant risk is associated with catheterization of the urinary bladder?

1. Increased risk of infection

2. Blood loss

3. Need for long-term catheterization

4. Skin irritation

The correct answer is: Increased risk of infection

Catheterization of the urinary bladder is primarily associated with an increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). This occurs because the process of inserting a catheter can introduce bacteria into the sterile environment of the bladder. Once the catheter is in place, there is a continuous pathway for bacteria to ascend from the urethra into the bladder. This risk is especially heightened with long-term catheterization, where the presence of a foreign body (the catheter) can lead to biofilm formation and further complicate the situation with persistent infection. In addition, the use of catheters can also disrupt the normal protective barriers of the urinary tract, making it easier for pathogens to establish an infection. Therefore, monitoring for signs of a UTI is crucial in patients with urinary catheters to ensure timely intervention and management. While blood loss, need for long-term catheterization, and skin irritation can occur in some scenarios related to catheterization, they are not as significant or common as the risk of infection. Blood loss may be more associated with traumatic insertion or underlying conditions, while skin irritation is a concern primarily related to the duration and care around the catheter site, and long-term catheterization can occur but is not a direct risk of the procedure itself. Thus, the