Health Library

Discharge Instructions for Radical Prostatectomy

You had a procedure called radical prostatectomy (removal of a cancerous prostate and surrounding tissues). This sheet will help you know what to do following surgery.

Activity

• Don’t drive until your doctor says it’s okay. This is usually after your catheter is removed and you are no longer taking pain medication.

• For the first 2 weeks after surgery, limit physical activity. This will allow your body to rest and heal.

• Talk to your doctor before going back to your normal activity level.

• Don’t lift anything heavier than 10 pounds until your doctor says it’s okay.

• Avoid long car rides.

• Avoid climbing stairs and strenuous exercise. Don’t mow the lawn or use a vacuum cleaner.

• Take naps if you feel tired.

Home Care

• Avoid constipation.

  • Eat fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

  • Unless directed otherwise, drink 6-8 glasses of water a day (enough to keep your urine very light colored). This will also help keep a healthy flow of urine.

  • Use a laxative or a mild stool softener if your doctor says it’s okay.

• Take care of your catheter. Ask for an information sheet and training to care for your catheter.

  • Keep the catheter well secured.

  • Use either leg bags or external (straight drainage) bags or both.

  • Empty your bag when it’s half full. You may notice some blood in the bag. This is normal after surgery and while the catheter is in place.

  • Use plain soap and water to wash the catheter and the head of your penis daily, or more often if needed.

• Return to your normal diet.

• Shower as usual.

• Be sure to finish the antibiotics that your doctor prescribed.

• Be sure to take pain medication if needed and as prescribed.

• Consider wearing sweat pants while you have the catheter. They may be more comfortable than other pants.

Follow-Up

Make a follow-up appointment as directed by our staff.

When to Call Your Doctor

Call your doctor right away if you have any of the following:

• Fever above 100.4°F

• Heavy bleeding, clots, or bright red blood from the catheter

• Catheter that falls out or stops draining

• Foul-smelling discharge from your catheter or from your incision site

• Trouble breathing

• Hives or rash

• Nausea and vomiting

• Diarrhea