Can a hospital force urinary catheter?

The use of urinary catheters in a hospital setting is typically based on medical necessity and patient consent. In most cases, a hospital cannot force a patient to undergo catheterization without their consent or the consent of their legal guardian. However, there may be certain situations where a catheter may be necessary for medical reasons and the patient may be unwilling or unable to provide consent.

In such situations, the hospital may seek legal guidance or consult with an ethics committee to determine the best course of action. They may also involve a healthcare professional, such as a physician or nurse, to discuss the risks and benefits of catheterization and to obtain informed consent from the patient or their guardian.

It's important to note that patient autonomy and the right to make informed decisions about their own medical care are fundamental principles in healthcare. Hospitals are generally obligated to respect these rights and cannot forcibly catheterize a patient without proper justification and authorization.