RESUMO
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To study the effect of extubation time of indwelling urinary catheters on postoperative recovery after cesarean section.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>A total of 138 parturients undergoing elective cesarean delivery were randomized into experimental group and control group to have the urinary catheters removed at 6-8 h and 24 h after cesarean section, respectively.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Compared with the control group, the experimental group showed significantly decreased incidences of urinary tract infection and urethral irritation (P<0.05), with also a significantly increased rate of autonomous urination and a higher degree of comfort (P<0.05) after removing the catheter.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>A shortened indwelling time of urinary catheters can promote postoperative recovery after cesarean section.</p>
