Bottom line: Monitoring and documenting intake and output after surgery is important for detecting conditions, such as postoperative urinary retention (POUR), which is associated with risk of overdistention and permanent detrusor muscle damage, leading to difficulties with urination.  Decreased output can also be an indicator of a urinary tract infection.

Summary:  Feliciano T, et al.  A retrospective, descriptive, exploratory study evaluating incidence of postoperative urinary retention after spinal anesthesia and its effect on PACU discharge.  J Perianesth Nursing.  2008; 23(6): 394-400.

Postoperative care.  In:  Lippincott’s Nursing Procedures and Skills.  Revised October 4, 2013.

Reviewed and updated 4/11/2014 ldt