I mean, you should all know about proper body mechanics, how to lift with your legs, protect your back, etc., but how often are things like bladder distention discussed..??..

After speaking with a urologist after a difficult 6 hour prostatectomy I was scrubbed on one day, the subject of bladder distention came up.

This particular surgeon informed me that preventing the elimination of bladder contents and "holding it" for long periods of time may lead to a weakened/distended bladder as you age.

You might think this sounds a little funny, but every experienced surgical tech out there knows exactly what it feels like to "hold it" during a long case.

Today I just want to give you a quick tip on helping to prevent bladder distention.

The longer you need to void (urinate), the more your bladder becomes distended.

A weakened or distended bladder may eventually lead to "leakage".

Hey, maybe you're at that young stage in life where you don't think about things like this.

BUT, working as a Surgical Tech, there are going to be times when you'll be scrubbed for long periods and you won't be able to get scrubbed out just to use the restroom.

So, here's a million dollar SURGICAL FITNESS tip;

Void (urinate) often and try not to put yourself in a position where you just consumed a half a gallon of water and then scrub in on a case lasting several hours.

Now, I'm not saying don't drink any fluids when you are working in the O.R., rather, get to know your body and when you'll need to "eliminate" after consuming fluids.

There have been plenty of times when I was scrubbed in an 8 hour spine or neuro case and wasn't able to get relieved.

For me, personally, that was a nightmare since I'm a "health-nut" and often consume large amounts of fluids.

Over time, I learned when and how much I could consume prior to scrubbing.

You can prevent a lot of discomfort and possible permanent future damage by following this advice.

Also, there is a great exercise you can do specifically designed to strengthen your pelvic muscles which directly correlate to your bladder.

This exercise is more or less written for females, but males can follow the advice and get the "gist" of the pelvic exercises.

Take a look at the "Kegal Exercise" here:

http://www.universityobgyn.com/kegal.htm

Many of you know that I am not only a surgical tech, but also a Certified Personal Trainer. I will be bringing you more tips and advice on specific things you can do to keep your body and mind healthy throughout your surgical career.

If there are specific questions you have regarding surgical fitness, feel free to ask away...

AND, if you still haven't checked out the Surgical Tech Success Handbook package, do yourself a favor and take a look here:

https://www.surgicaltechsuccess.com/surgicaltechsuccesshb.html

Oh yeah, one last thing, I've been working on more resources for you on SurgicalTechSuccess.com. Three new pages are currently being produced which include Medical Careers, Financial Aid, and Online Education. Keep your eyes posted for future updates...

Until next time~

Best Regards!

Your Friend,

Robert

p.s. If you want a ton of detailed information, motivation, and resources, you really should take a look at the Surgical Tech Success Handbook package:

https://www.surgicaltechsuccess.com/surgicaltechsuccesshb.html

Thank You!

***PLEASE NOTE***

Always consult with your physician prior to starting any exercise program. (Since I don't know each one of you on a personal basis and am unaware of your current health status, you should never start any type of exercise program without the express written consent of a physician)