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A trial of void is a medical procedure to determine if a person can urinate on their own after a urinary catheter has been removed. The catheter is removed, and the patient is monitored as they attempt to pass urine, often by urinating into a container that can measure the volume. This test is used to see if a catheter can be removed permanently, most often after surgery or an episode of urinary retention.
What happens during the procedure
Catheter removal: The balloon on the urinary catheter is deflated, and the catheter is carefully removed.
Waiting to urinate: You may be asked to drink fluids to help fill the bladder. You will wait for the urge to urinate.
Urinating and measuring: When you feel the need to urinate, you will do so into a container. The volume of urine is measured and recorded.
Monitoring: You may need to repeat this process for several hours to ensure your bladder is emptying properly.
Post-procedure: After the test, you will either be cleared to go home or, if you are unable to urinate, a healthcare provider will discuss the next steps, such as reinserting the catheter or other treatment options.
Why a trial of void is performed
After surgery: To check if a temporary catheter can be removed and the patient can resume normal urination.
After urinary retention: To see if the bladder has recovered enough to manage urination independently.
To avoid further intervention: If successful, a trial of void can help a patient avoid more invasive procedures.