The patient is having lower abdominal surgery and the nurse inserts an indwelling catheter. What is the rationale for the nurse's action?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Anesthetic agents and other agents given during surgery can decrease bladder contractility and/or sensation of bladder fullness, causing urinary retention. Local trauma during lower abdominal and pelvic surgery sometimes obstructs urine flow, requiring temporary use of an indwelling urinary catheter. The patient is more likely to retain urine rather than experience uncontrollable voiding.

The Patient Is Having Lower Abdominal Surgery and the Nurse