Nursing of urinary incontinence after prostate cancer surgery

Urinary incontinence is a very common complication after prostate cancer surgery. Literature reports that 19% of patients need to use urine pads after surgery; 3.6% of patients experience complete urinary incontinence, which brings great inconvenience to patients. The recovery time of urinary incontinence after surgery is generally 1.5 months. During this period, nursing measures should be taken:

1. Eliminate tension: Let patients who experience temporary urinary incontinence after catheter removal be fully prepared mentally. Eliminate patients' tension and anxiety after surgery and build their confidence in treatment.

2. Perform recovery training: Patients with postoperative urinary incontinence should perform pelvic floor muscle exercises, that is, lie flat on the bed to reduce abdominal pressure, increase urethral closure pressure, and contract the anus at the same time.

3. Maintain water intake: Patients with urinary incontinence often automatically reduce their water intake, which can easily increase the chance of urinary tract infection. Keep the daily fluid intake at 2000-2500 liters. Limit water intake before going to bed to reduce nighttime urine output.

4. Assist with scheduled urination: Observe the urination response of patients with urinary incontinence, assist them in urinating on a regular basis and gradually lengthen the urination interval to help them regain control.

5. Keep the skin clean and hygienic: urine soaking the skin for a long time can soften the stratum corneum of the skin and lose its normal defense function, and can also cause rashes and even bedsores. Keep the skin clean and dry, wash it in time, change clothes, diaper pads, and bed sheets frequently, and apply an appropriate amount of ointment to protect the skin.

6. Use urine collectors for patients with permanent urinary incontinence and instruct them on the correct use to avoid urinary tract infections and skin ulcers.