You are ready to care for your artificial urinary sphincter at home. This device allows for 98% bladder control. Below are some guidelines for using your artificial sphincter: 

• Drink a normal amount of daily fluids. Check with your provider if you are unsure about how much is a normal amount. 
• Empty your bladder first thing every morning and at least every three to four hours during the day. Empty the bladder again before bedtime. 
• The sphincter bulb may be pumped as many times as needed to empty the bladder. After 2-3 pumps, the cuff will deflate, and the urethra will open to allow you to urinate or pass your catheter. It will take three to four minutes before the cuff is fully inflated again. 
• Both you (and/or your parent/caregiver if applicable) should carry identification cards that say you use an artificial sphincter. If emergency care is needed outside of Gillette Children’s, other healthcare providers must be aware that you use this device. 

Call Telehealth Nursing at 651-229-3890 if any of the following conditions are present: 

• Drainage, swelling or increased redness in the genital area 
• A feeling of increased heat around the surgical incision, which could be a sign of infection 
• Bladder is enlarged or swollen
• A feeling of fullness, urgency to void or discomfort 
• Unable to urinate or pass catheter to empty bladder 
• Undue tenderness and tightness 
• New or worsening incontinence