Who can legally insert a urinary catheter?

The ability to insert a urinary catheter is generally restricted to licensed healthcare professionals, primarily to ensure patient safety and adherence to established medical protocols. Inserting a urinary catheter requires a good understanding of human anatomy, aseptic technique, and potential complications that may arise during the procedure.

Doctors and nurses, being trained medical professionals, possess the necessary skills and knowledge to perform this task safely and effectively. Their education includes extensive training in procedural skills, making them adept at recognizing indications for catheterization, understanding patient anatomy, and managing any complications should they occur.

Other options such as trained personnel more broadly could include those who may not have the specific authority or training required under medical regulations. Medical assistants, while trained to assist in various clinical tasks, may not have the same level of authority or training specific to the insertion of urinary catheters depending on state regulations. Family members do not typically possess the training necessary to perform this procedure safely and effectively, thereby risking the patient's well-being. Therefore, the most accurate answer is that only doctors and nurses are licensed and trained to perform catheter insertions.