Final answer:
Catheterization is the procedure involving the insertion of a sterile tube into the bladder through the urethra to provide urinary drainage. It is necessary when a patient cannot urinate naturally, to prevent complications from urinary retention and to maintain urological health.
Step-by-step explanation:
The procedure during which a sterile plastic tube is inserted to provide urinary drainage is known as catheterization. This medical procedure involves the insertion of a catheter through the urethra into the bladder to allow for urine to drain out. This is often required when a patient is unable to void urine naturally due to various medical conditions, surgeries, or other impediments.
The urinary system is designed to transport urine out of the body efficiently and includes the urethra, bladder, and ureters. The bladder is a hollow muscle that collects urine from the kidneys via the ureters which use peristalsis to move urine. When performing catheterization, the catheter bypasses the normal urinary pathways that include the internal and external sphincters. Issues such as incontinence or urinary retention can necessitate the use of catheterization to ensure the bladder does not become too full, as it can typically hold 500-600 mL of urine.
Correct catheterization is crucial in a clinical setting to prevent infection and to ensure patient comfort and safety. It is often required when patients have conditions that impair natural urination, such as spinal cord injuries, enlarged prostate, or certain surgeries.