Urinary Retention Flashcards
What is urinary retention?
The inability to voluntarily urinate.
What is acute urinary retention?
A medical emergency that is usually sudden.
How does chronic urinary retention differ from acute urinary retention?
Chronic urinary retention is gradual and occurs over months and years.
What factors influence the treatment of urinary retention?
The underlying condition.
What is the initial treatment for acute, painful urinary retention when no cause can be found?
Catheterization.
What medication is given before removing a catheter in acute urinary retention?
An alpha-adrenoreceptor blocker (-osins).
How long should alpha-adrenoreceptor blockers be given before catheter removal?
At least two days.
Which medications are used in chronic urinary retention?
Alflusosin, doxazosin, and tamsulosin.
What is the mechanism of action of -osins?
They relax smooth muscle and increase urinary flow.
What are some side effects of -osins?
Drowsiness, reduced blood pressure, dizziness.
What is floppy iris syndrome associated with?
-osins.
What are some contraindications of -osins?
Postural hypertension and micturition syncope.
What is the onset time for -osins?
Rapid, benefits seen within hours or days.
What do 5A reductase inhibitors, such as finasteride and dutasteride, do?
Reduce prostate size and therefore the risk of acute urinary retention.
What is the onset time for 5A reductase inhibitors?
Slow, could take up to six months.
What is an important consideration when using finasteride and dutasteride?
Use contraception, as it is excreted in semen.
What are potential serious side effects of finasteride and dutasteride?
Depression and suicide, which is an MHRA warning.
