Question

When mannitol is administered preoperatively, an what is usually inserted into the patient's bladder to accommodate resulting diuresis (increased excretion of urine)?

Answer 1

A urinary catheter is usually inserted to manage diuresis caused by preoperative administration of mannitol, an osmotic diuretic used to reduce brain swelling.

Step-by-step explanation:

When mannitol is administered preoperatively to induce diuresis, a urinary catheter is usually inserted into the patient's bladder to handle the increased urine output. Mannitol works as an osmotic diuretic by drawing water into the renal tubules, which increases urine production to reduce brain swelling or manage cerebral edema.

Mannitol is part of a class of diuretics which promote water loss by osmosis, similar to how high glucose levels in diabetes mellitus cause diuresis. Administration of mannitol can lead to significant diuresis. To manage the resultant high volume of urine and prevent urinary retention or overflow incontinence, a urinary catheter provides a direct route for urine to leave the body without causing discomfort or additional complications to the patient.