Andrea Domingo
California State University, San Marcos
Schreiber, M. L. (2017). Evidence-based practice. Postoperative nursing considerations: Transurethral resection of the prostate. MEDSURG Nursing, 26(6), 419-422.
Purpose: This article aims to describe the procedure itself, as well as indications and side effects of transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). It also discusses nursing care interventions for patients in the postoperative phase and identifies complications from the procedure and how to prevent them.
Summary: Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is the most favored medical intervention for people with benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). BPH occurs when the prostate gland …show more content…
This is why monitoring the patient’s temperature and testing their urine is essential. Proper catheter care should be ensured as well, as this is also typically a source of infection if not managed properly. On rare occasions, a more serious and life-threatening condition called TURP syndrome can be a concern. A patient who develops TURP syndrome experiences symptoms such as a dizziness, shortness of breath, or a headache. This occurs when the patient loses sodium due to the accumulation of fluid in the body from the increased absorption of the irrigation fluid. The patient develops adverse cardiac and neurological side effects due to the significant decrease in serum sodium levels that may require admission into the intensive care unit for further assessment and …show more content…
Patients should stay away from heavy physical exertion and ensure that they are consuming plenty of fluids. Urinary incontinence is a possible adverse effect of TURP. If this occurs, certain pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegel exercises, can help increase bladder control. Constipation is another adverse effect that can be managed by stool softeners and increased fiber consumption. Patients should be made aware that erectile dysfunction is a common occurrence after TURP and what its symptoms are. Patients who are to undergo TURP are typically stressed and anxious about the procedure and its associated side effects. This is why therapeutic communication and thorough education are essential tasks that nurses must strive to fulfill. While TURP is a fairly common procedure, complications may still arise and nurses play a significant role in ensuring that they are prevented.
Nursing