What type of catheter is most appropriate for a patient with an enlarged prostate and urine retention?

The most appropriate catheter for a patient with an enlarged prostate and urine retention is the Coude' tip catheter. This type of catheter features a specially angled tip that allows for easier navigation around obstructions like an enlarged prostate. The design of the Coude' tip facilitates insertion even in cases where the urethra may be narrowed or blocked, which is commonly seen in patients experiencing urinary retention due to prostate enlargement.

In contrast, a Foley catheter is a continuous drainage catheter that is typically preferred for long-term use or when patients cannot void at all, but may not be ideal for navigating obstructions caused by an enlarged prostate. Intermittent catheters are used for temporary drainage and may not effectively address the retention issue due to difficulty in insertion. Lastly, a suprapubic catheter is placed surgically through the abdominal wall into the bladder and is often reserved for cases where urethral access is not possible but may not be the first option for managing retention related to prostate enlargement.