In which scenario would intermittent catheterization be preferred over an indwelling catheter?

• A. Chronic neurogenic bladder requiring ongoing drainage
• B. Short-term urinary retention after surgery
• C. Stable nocturnal enuresis in adults
• D. Acute kidney injury with rapid urine output changes

Answer: (A)

Intermittent catheterization is best when the bladder needs regular emptying but doesn’t require a catheter to stay in place continuously. In a chronic neurogenic bladder that requires ongoing drainage, the bladder cannot empty reliably on its own, so planned, timed catheterizations allow complete bladder emptying, protect kidney function by preventing high pressures and urinary stasis, and reduce long-term complications tied to an indwelling catheter (such as infections, encrustation, urethral trauma, and stones). It also supports greater autonomy and quality of life because the catheter is removed between voiding episodes.

Temporary indwelling catheters are typically used for short-term postoperative drainage to bridge until normal voiding resumes, not for long-term management. Nocturnal enuresis in adults is usually managed without ongoing catheterization, and acute kidney injury with rapid urine output changes demands close monitoring and often continuous drainage to track and protect renal function.