What does catheter mean? Explain the definition and function of catheter in detail.

Catheter is a kind of medical material with tubular structure, generally made of plastic, silica gel, rubber and other materials, which is used for infusion, drainage, bronchoscopy and so on in medical surgery. There are various types of catheters, such as intravenous catheter, urinary catheter, gastric tube, tracheal intubation and so on. The size, length, shape and material of each catheter are different, so the appropriate catheter can be selected according to different medical operations.

The function of the catheter mainly has the following aspects:

1. Infusion: The catheter can be used as a delivery pipeline to deliver drugs, nutrient solution and blood into the body.

2. Drainage: The catheter can drain the liquid in the body, such as ascites and pleural effusion.

3. Bronchoscopy: The catheter can be used as a guide tube to assist medical instruments such as bronchoscope to enter the bronchus for diagnosis and treatment.

4. Others: Catheters can also be used for other medical operations, such as intubation and catheterization.

It should be noted that the catheter should be operated in strict accordance with the doctor's advice, the correct catheter should be used according to the doctor's advice, and the catheter suitable for the patient should be selected. Before use, carefully check whether the catheter is in good condition, free of burrs and peculiar smell, and keep the catheter clean and hygienic. At the same time, medical staff need to help patients adapt to the existence of catheter, comfort and care for patients, and reduce their discomfort and pain.