In cases of urinary retention due to obstruction, what is often the first step in management?

In cases of urinary retention caused by an obstruction, immediate catheterization is typically the first step in management. This approach is crucial as it allows for the immediate relief of bladder distension and relief of symptoms. Catheterization helps to decompress the bladder, which can prevent further complications such as bladder injury, infection, or kidney damage due to increased pressure.

By using a catheter, healthcare providers can quickly assess the severity of the retention and determine whether further intervention is needed, such as surgical options to remove the obstruction. Other management strategies, like antibiotic therapy, may be relevant in cases where infection is also present, but they do not address the immediate need to alleviate urinary retention itself. Fluid restriction is not a standard initial management approach in obstruction cases and could exacerbate the condition. Lastly, surgical interventions may be necessary later but are not the first step when immediate relief can be provided through catheterization.