What patient education should be provided regarding the removal of a Foley catheter?

When providing patient education regarding the removal of a Foley catheter, it is essential to inform the patient that they may experience urgency to urinate and a burning sensation during the initial attempts to void. This happens because the bladder and urethra may have become accustomed to a catheter's presence, and once removed, the body needs to readjust. The sensation of urgency is a normal response as the bladder begins to function independently again.

Burning may also be experienced due to irritation in the urinary tract from the catheter or the potential presence of residual debris as urine flows for the first time without the catheter. This understanding helps prepare the patient for these common sensations, easing anxiety and encouraging them to communicate any severe discomfort or concerns to their healthcare provider.

Other considerations, such as increased fluid intake, while beneficial for overall bladder health, are not directly related to the immediate effects experienced after catheter removal. Constipation and increased appetite do not typically connect to the process of Foley catheter removal and its immediate aftermath. Therefore, emphasizing the urgency to pee and potential burning sensation is crucial in managing patient expectations and comfort during post-catheter care.