Catheter/ˈkæθətər/ Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Medical Device A catheter is a specialized medical device, not a common household item. After the surgery, the patient had a catheter to drain urine. Pro Tip 2/3Hospital Use Catheters are mostly used in hospitals or by healthcare professionals. The paramedic used a catheter to administer emergency medication. Pro Tip 3/3Purpose Specific There are different types of catheters, each designed for a specific purpose. The doctor recommended a Foley catheter for long-term urinary needs.