What is the primary purpose of an IV catheter?

The primary purpose of an IV catheter is to provide a route for medication and fluid administration. IV catheters allow healthcare providers to deliver medications, fluids, electrolytes, and nutrients directly into a patient's bloodstream, ensuring rapid and effective treatment. This method is particularly beneficial in emergency situations, as medications can be administered quickly, and it is essential for patients who are unable to take oral medications due to various reasons such as nausea, unconsciousness, or severe illness. Additionally, IV therapy can be used for blood transfusions and delivering intravenous antibiotics, among other treatments, thereby highlighting the versatility and importance of IV catheters in patient care.

Other options, while related to healthcare, do not serve this primary function. For instance, accessing the urinary system is typically done through catheters specifically designed for that purpose, while drawing blood samples and preparing medications for oral administration involve different processes and equipment not associated with IV catheters.