Male catheterization and the extended role of the female nurse.

Although the incidence of long-term catheterization has declined in recent years, catheterized patients still require care to be provided by competent practitioners, regardless of their gender. Custom and tradition decreed that male catheterization was carried out by male nurses and doctors. Myth, misunderstanding and misbelief can perpetuate the notion that it is inappropriate for a female nurse to catheterize a male patient. However, the advent of the autonomous practitioner and a move from extended to an expanded role provides an opportunity for improved care of the catheterized male patient, particularly in the community where female practitioners greatly outnumber their male counterparts.