3 Urinary Retention and Integrated Postoperative Risk Review Free Online FlashCards

What is postoperative urinary retention?

Postoperative urinary retention is difficulty emptying the bladder after surgery.

What should an initial urinary-retention assessment include?

Ask when the patient last urinated, measure output as appropriate, and assess for bladder fullness while following the care team’s monitoring plan.

Which postoperative bleeding signs need urgent attention?

Persistent or increasing bleeding, a rapidly enlarging dressing stain, weakness, dizziness, or faintness are concerning; severe bleeding or collapse requires emergency response.

What incision changes may indicate a surgical-site infection?

Increasing incision redness or pain, drainage, or fever may indicate infection and should be reported.

Which findings may signal a serious systemic response to infection?

Confusion, clammy skin, severe discomfort, rapid breathing, or shortness of breath can signal a serious systemic response and need urgent evaluation.

What actions can help reduce postoperative respiratory complications?

Anesthesia, pain, shallow breathing, and immobility can contribute to lung complications. Follow instructions for getting upright, moving, coughing, and taking deep breaths.

What limb findings may indicate postoperative DVT?

One-sided limb swelling, warmth, redness, or pain may indicate DVT and warrants prompt clinical evaluation. Do not massage a suspected clot.

Which wound changes should be reported to the surgical team?

Increasing swelling or bleeding, a wound that opens or deepens, or new or worsening pain warrants prompt contact with the surgical team.

What medication-related postoperative risks call for extra caution?

Pain medicines and anesthesia may contribute to nausea, constipation, drowsiness, or falls. Ask for help before getting up if weak or dizzy, and take medicines only as directed.

What symptoms can suggest postoperative urinary retention?

It may cause inability to urinate, frequent small voids, or lower-abdominal pressure or discomfort; it can also occur without obvious discomfort.

What does a bladder scan help determine?

A bladder scan estimates bladder volume or postvoid residual and can help guide whether catheterization is needed.

What principles guide catheter use for postoperative retention?

Follow facility protocol and provider orders, use the least invasive appropriate method, and remove an indwelling catheter as soon as it is no longer needed to reduce infection risk.