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Can a GP Insert a Catheter?

Published in Medical Procedures 2 mins read

While the reference states that "Urinary catheters are usually inserted by doctors or nurses in hospital or the community," it doesn't explicitly exclude General Practitioners (GPs) from inserting catheters. Therefore, we can infer that a GP can insert a catheter, as they are doctors. However, it is more common for nurses or doctors working in hospitals or the community to perform this procedure.

Here's a breakdown of catheter insertion:

  • Who typically inserts catheters? Doctors or nurses commonly insert urinary catheters in various settings.
  • Where are catheters inserted? This procedure is carried out in hospitals and within the community setting.
  • Types of Catheters:
    • Urethral Catheter: This type of catheter is inserted through the urethra (the tube carrying urine from the bladder).
    • Suprapubic Catheter: This type of catheter is inserted through a small opening in the lower abdomen.


Catheter Insertion Details
Common Operators Doctors or Nurses
Settings Hospitals or Community
Insertion Routes Urethral or through a small abdominal opening


It is important to note that the specific practices can vary depending on local guidelines and the GP's training and experience.

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