Final answer:
The three lumens of a triple-lumen urinary catheter serve to inflate the balloon, drain urine, and deliver continuous irrigation fluid to wash out blood clots and debris post-transurethral resection of the prostate, maintaining clear visibility and preventing obstructions.
Step-by-step explanation:
In addition to balloon inflation, the three lumens of a triple-lumen urinary catheter perform crucial roles for a patient who has undergone a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). One lumen is dedicated to balloon inflation, while another lumen is used for urine drainage.
The third lumen's function is to deliver continuous irrigation fluid into the bladder to prevent blood clot formation and ensure clear visibility, which is essential after a TURP procedure. Continuous irrigation helps wash out blood clots and debris from the bladder, thus maintaining patency and preventing obstruction of urine flow.
The architecture of the urinary tract system is designed to prevent reflux and facilitate smooth flow. The ureters have a special oblique entry into the bladder creating a one-way valve to prevent backflow, adaptive changes that ensure urine continues to move in the correct direction despite challenges such as increased pressure from continuous irrigation.