Abstract: A packaging assembly for a hydrophilic catheter permits activation of a hydrophilic coating on the catheter and introduction of the catheter into a urethra in a sterile condition. A rupturable pouch containing a lubricant is enclosed in a chamber of the packaging assembly also occupied by the catheter. A portion of the packaging assembly in which the pouch is disposed is removable from the remaining portion of the packaging assembly following activation of the hydrophilic coating, such as by tearing along a line beginning at one or more tear notches, ripping along a perforation, cutting, or some combination thereof. The remaining portion of the packaging assembly may then be manipulated to introduce the catheter into a urethra, isolating at least an insertable portion of the catheter from human hands prior to contact with the urethra.