Question

The physician orders the removal of an in-dwelling catheter the second post-operative day for a client with a prostatectomy. The client complains of pain and dribbling of urine the first time he voids. The nurse should tell the client that:

Using warm compresses over the bladder will lessen the discomfort.
Perineal exercises will be started in a few days to help relieve his symptoms.
If the symptoms don't improve, the catheter will have to be reinserted.
His complaints are common and will improve over the next few days.

Answer 1

The client's complaints of pain and urine dribbling post-prostatectomy catheter removal are common and should improve over the next few days. Warm compresses and perineal exercises may alleviate discomfort. If symptoms persist, the healthcare team might consider reinserting the catheter.

Step-by-step explanation:

The discomfort and dribbling the client is experiencing after prostatectomy are common symptoms that will likely improve over the next few days. It is important to reassure the client and provide guidance on how to manage these symptoms in the short term while healing. This is a normal part of the healing process, as the urethra and bladder are adapting post-surgery.

Instructing the patient to use warm compresses over the bladder can help alleviate discomfort. It may be beneficial to start perineal exercises after a few days to strengthen pelvic floor muscles and aid symptom relief. Additionally, it's important to monitor the situation; if the symptoms do not improve, the healthcare team may consider reinsertion of the catheter, although this is typically not necessary.