A survey on incidence and factors that may influence first postoperative urination.

A prospective study was conducted to investigate factors that might influence first postoperative urination. In 174 patients, 39% were not able to void spontaneously after surgery and required catheterization. Identified factors included males over 55 years of age, extended time in surgery, extended anesthesia time, and previous history of voiding problems. It is important for nurses to take a more active role in prescreening for voiding problems as well as be knowledgeable about the pharmacologic action of drugs causing bladder overdistention.