During catheter care for a female resident, why is it important to hold the catheter at the meatus without tugging?

• A. To prevent injury to the urethra
• B. To allow more cleaning around the meatus
• C. To stop the flow
• D. To ensure the bag is lower

Answer: (A)

Traction on the catheter can injure the urethra. When you hold the catheter at the meatus, you stabilize it so movement from cleaning or care doesn’t pull on the urethral passage. In females, the urethra is shorter and more delicate, so even small tugging or displacement can cause irritation, tearing, or trauma. Keeping a steady grip at the entry helps prevent injury and dislodgement while you perform proper cleansing around the opening. The goal here isn’t stopping urine flow or repositioning the bag, but avoiding any pull on the urethra.