During this surgical procedure, all or some of your prostate gland is removed to relieve urinary problems due to prostate enlargement. To help you care for yourself once at home, here are some instructions:
Activities
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Limit physical activity during the first week after surgery to allow your body time to rest and heal.
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Check with your doctor before resuming normal activity levels.
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Avoid long car rides and don’t drive until your doctor says it’s okay. Typically this is after your catheter is removed and you are no longer taking pain medication.
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Do not lift anything weighing more than 10 pounds until your doctor says it’s okay.
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Avoid climbing stairs and doing strenuous exercise. Do not do chores such as mowing the lawn or vacuuming until approved by your doctor.
Additional Home Care Tips
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Finish all of the antibiotics your doctor prescribed to you, even when you feel better. Antibiotics help keep you from getting an infection.
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Eat high-fiber foods to prevent constipation. Use laxatives, stool softeners or enemas as directed by your doctor.
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You should receive an information sheet about caring for your urinary catheter. Ask for a sheet if you did not receive one. Follow the sheet’s instructions, some of which should include:
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Keep the catheter well secured to the leg or abdomen.
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Use leg bags, external (straight drainage) bags, or both.
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Empty the bag at half full. You may observe some blood in the bag, but don't be alarmed. This is typical after surgery, and while the catheter is in place.
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Use plain soap and water to wash the head of your penis daily - more often if needed.
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Wash the catheter daily with plain soap and water to prevent infection.
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Resume your normal diet.
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Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day (enough that it keeps your urine light colored). This helps keep urine flowing freely.
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Shower as normal.
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While the catheter is in place, wear loose-fitting sweatpants . They are more comfortable than other pant styles.
Follow-Up
Make a follow-up appointment as directed by our staff.
When to Seek Medical Help
Call 911 right away if you experience shortness of breath. Otherwise, call your doctor immediately if you have:
- Fever of 100.4°F or higher, or shaking chills
- Hives or skin rash
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
- The catheter falls out or stops draining
- A foul-smelling discharge from your catheter or urethra (at tip of the penis)