Epidural catheters are indicated in patients that are having extensive, painful surgeries and will need pain management for longer than 12-24 hours. An epidural catheter could be placed high enough to cause …show more content…
There is a chance of urine retention, which is more likely in the first 24 hours. The patient should be continuously monitored, the bladder manually expressed, or a urinary catheter placed if needed. Epidural hematomas and abscesses can form with incorrect placement of the needle or unsterile technique. Incorrect placement can also lead to another complication if the spinal cord is hit. There could be prolonged motor dysfunction or paralysis if the spinal cord is injured at any point during catheterization. Also, if the patient is only laying on one side the entire time, the constant pressure on those nerve can lead to prolonged motor dysfunction or