Care of the patient undergoing transurethral resection of the prostate

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) for benign prostatic hypertrophy is a common surgical procedure in the United States. Left untreated, benign prostatic hypertrophy can lead to detrimental consequences such as renal failure from urinary obstruction. Although TURP is a common procedure, it is not without risk. Complications can occur, and the perianesthesia nurse must be familiar with them and their treatment. Complications related to the surgical procedure and the anesthesia technique must be assessed and treated quickly to prevent morbidity and mortality in these patients. The perianesthesia nurse is instrumental in managing and preventing complications associated with transurethral resection of the prostate.