A nurse is caring for a client in the medical-surgical unit.

Exhibits

Which of the following actions should the nurse take to decrease the risks for urinary tract infection for this client?
Select all that apply.

A. Incorrect. Restraints should be removed and repositioned, and the client's needs assessed at a frequency that follows institutional policies, which might not always be every 4 hours.

B. Incorrect. Restraints should be attached to the bed frame, not the side rails, to minimize the risk of injury.

C. Incorrect. PRN (as needed) restraint prescriptions should be avoided. Restraints should only be used based on specific criteria and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

D. Correct. When using restraints, it's important to document the client's condition frequently to assess for any potential adverse effects or discomfort.

Choice A rationale:

Looping the tubing so that it is lower than the collection bag creates a dependent loop where urine can pool, increasing the risk of UTI. This practice should be avoided as it can lead to bacterial contamination and subsequent infections.

Choice B rationale:

Keeping the urinary bag at bladder level when ambulating helps maintain a continuous flow of urine into the collection bag without creating dependent loops. This practice minimizes the risk of bacterial contamination and reduces the chances of acquiring a UTI.

Choice C rationale:

Obtaining urinary samples by disconnecting the tubing connections is not recommended. This procedure can introduce bacteria into the urinary system, increasing the risk of UTI. Sterile techniques, such as using a catheter port for sampling, should be followed to minimize the risk of infection.

Choice D rationale:

Securing the catheter to the client's thigh is essential to prevent tension and pulling on the catheter, which can cause trauma to the urethra. However, securing the catheter alone does not minimize the risk of UTI. Proper hygiene, closed drainage system, and maintaining a continuous flow of urine into the collection bag are key factors in preventing UTIs in clients with indwelling urinary catheters.