What is the recommended order of operations for removing a Foley catheter following surgery?

• A. Conduct a spontaneous voiding trial and remove the catheter if the patient voids with an acceptable post-void residual.
• B. Remove the Foley catheter immediately after surgery.
• C. Clamp the Foley catheter for 24 hours before removal.
• D. Leave the catheter in place until drain stops.

Answer: (B)

Removing the Foley catheter in the immediate postoperative period is the preferred approach because it minimizes how long the catheter stays in place, reducing the risk of catheter-associated urinary tract infections and encouraging normal bladder function. After removal, you monitor the patient to see if they can void adequately and empty the bladder. If voiding occurs with an acceptable residual, no catheter is needed anymore. If voiding doesn’t occur, you then follow your unit’s protocol for assessment and possible re-catheterization or a trial of void, but the first step is the prompt removal. Keeping the catheter longer by delaying removal, clamping it for a day, or waiting until drains stop unnecessarily extends catheter use and raises infection risk.