Postoperative urinary retention. Guidelines and an algorithm.

Postoperative urinary retention is a common problem after surgery. Prevention includes obtaining a preoperative history and physical, having the patient void just before surgery, avoiding overhydration, and encouraging micturition soon after surgery. Management requires sterile catheterization, when indicated, to drain the urinary bladder completely. Urine cultures must be done when indwelling catheters are used. Antibiotics may be necessary.