Which statement describes a suprapubic catheter?

Which statement describes a suprapubic catheter?

• A. Inserted through the urethra
• B. Not sutured
• C. Used only for straight drainage
• D. Inserted through an incision above the symphysis pubis

Answer: (D)

A suprapubic catheter is placed by creating an opening through the lower abdomen just above the pubic symphysis and threading the catheter into the bladder. This route avoids the urethra, which is why it’s chosen when urethral access isn’t feasible or long‑term catheterization is needed. The catheter is typically secured to the skin to prevent movement and dislodgement. It can be used for continuous drainage rather than being limited to a single, short-term drainage method. So the defining description is insertion through an incision above the symphysis pubis.

A suprapubic catheter is placed by creating an opening through the lower abdomen just above the pubic symphysis and threading the catheter into the bladder. This route avoids the urethra, which is why it’s chosen when urethral access isn’t feasible or long‑term catheterization is needed. The catheter is typically secured to the skin to prevent movement and dislodgement. It can be used for continuous drainage rather than being limited to a single, short-term drainage method. So the defining description is insertion through an incision above the symphysis pubis.