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Urinary Retention

Urinary Retention. Signs and Symptoms Heather Nelson, RN. Urinary Retention. Urinary retention is the accumulation of urine in the bladder with associated inability of the bladder to empty itself. Because urine production continues, retention distends the bladder. Urinary Retention.

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Urinary Retention

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  1. Urinary Retention Signs and Symptoms Heather Nelson, RN

  2. Urinary Retention • Urinary retention is the accumulation of urine in the bladder with associated inability of the bladder to empty itself. • Because urine production continues, retention distends the bladder.

  3. Urinary Retention • The adult urinary bladder normally holds 250 to 450 ml of urine when the micturition reflex is triggered. • With urinary retention, some adult bladders may distend to hold 3000 ml of urine.

  4. Urinary Retention • Prolonged retention leads to stasis (a slowing of the flow of urine) and stagnation of urine, which increase the possibility of a urinary tract infection. • Distention causes reduced blood flow to the bladder, which is considered the major cause of urinary tract infections.

  5. Clinical Signs of Urinary Retention • Discomfort in the pubic area • Bladder distention • Inability to void or frequent voiding of small volumes (25 to 50 ml) • A disproportionately small amount of fluid output in relation to intake • Increasing restlessness and need to void

  6. Bladder Distention • Retention is distinguished from oliguria or anuria by the bladder distention. • Bladder distention can be assessed by palpation and percussion above the symphysis pubis. • Percussion of the suprapubic area produces a “kettle-drum” or dull sound when the bladder is full.

  7. Urinary Retention • The most common type of retention is post-operative retention. • Postpartum retention is commonly due to swelling around the urinary meatus that results from perineal trauma associated with vaginal delivery. • Many medications interfere with the normal urination process and may cause retention. • Certain psychosocial factors may be associated with retention.

  8. Urinary Retention • Behaviors that may help stimulate the micturition reflex: • Privacy • Normal position • Sufficient time • Running water

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