catheter

I didn't really want to bring up the subject of catheters but I'm going to anyway.  I've never had to have one, and don't really want one, but it seems the message boards are mixed on this issue.   For those of you that had surgery in MB, did you have one?  Just wondering if it's normal procedure here.

No, I didn't need to have one. The use of cathers is not standard practice for this surgery in Manitoba. However, some people have difficulty urinating after surgery as as side effect of the anesthesia. I believe I know one person who this happened to. The nurses will give you until late into the evening of your surgery to pass fluid. If you aren't able to do so, then you may need a catheter for a day or so until the anestheic drugs are completely out of your system.

Tanya

I didn't have one after my first surgery, but I had one after my second. I was glad for it, and I was really NOT wanting one at all. But let me tell you was I ever happy not to have to haul my drugged self t to to the toilet!! LOL

So to answer, it's not a normal part of the surgeries. They really try to have things as simple as possible.  If needed they usually do it while you're "out" anyways.

Hi,

It isn't a normal practice, they won't give you a catheter unless it is absolutely necessary.
After having said that after my surgery in Dec 2011, they had to use the catheter twice on me, because I didn't have the urge to go but they knew I was full.  They have a little ultra sound machine to check the bladder, if you are over a certain limit they will just insert it and they take it out right after.  I wouldn't worry about it too much.  Everything will be alright.

I have had abdominal surgery before and only once had a catheter. I was nervous to have it but like the other poster said, it was already in place by the time I woke up. And really, not having to get up constantly to go to the bathroom was a great relief and helped with any pain associated with moving around after surgery. Its really not bad and I hope you dont let it bother you.