A nurse is caring for a client who is 5 hours postoperative following a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). The nurse notes that the client's indwelling urinary catheter has not drained in the past hour. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Adjust the rate of the bladder irrigant.
Irrigate the catheter.
Check the tubing for kinks.
Notify the provider.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
Adjusting the rate of the bladder irrigant may be necessary if there is an issue with the flow or the amount of fluid, but it is not the first action to take. The nurse must first ensure that there is no mechanical obstruction causing the lack of drainage.
Choice B reason:
Irrigating the catheter could be the next step if checking the tubing does not resolve the issue. However, it is not the first action to take because if there is a kink in the tubing, irrigation will not be effective and could potentially cause harm.
Choice C reason:
The first action the nurse should take is to check the tubing for kinks because this is a common and easily correctable cause of obstruction in catheter drainage. If the tubing is kinked, straightening it may allow urine to drain properly.
Choice D reason:
Notifying the provider is important if the other interventions do not resolve the issue. However, it is not the first action to take. The nurse should first perform basic troubleshooting steps to identify and correct any simple mechanical issues with the catheter system.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a condition where blood clots form in the deep veins, usually in the legs. While VTE is a risk following trauma and immobilization, the acute onset of shortness of breath and chest pain is less typical for VTE, which more commonly presents with leg pain and swelling.
Choice B reason:
Hypovolemic shock occurs due to significant blood or fluid loss, leading to decreased blood volume and inadequate circulation. While it can result from a motor-vehicle crash, the client's symptoms of shortness of breath and chest pain are not the most indicative of hypovolemic shock, which typically presents with rapid pulse, low blood pressure, and cold, clammy skin.
Choice C reason:
Compartment syndrome is a surgical emergency where increased pressure within the muscle compartments impairs circulation and nerve function. It presents with severe pain, swelling, and sometimes paralysis of the affected limb, but it does not typically cause shortness of breath or chest pain.
Choice D reason:
Fat embolism syndrome (FES) is a serious complication that can occur after long bone fractures. Fat globules may enter the bloodstream and travel to the lungs, leading to respiratory distress, which can manifest as shortness of breath and chest pain. FES can also cause neurological symptoms and a petechial rash. Given the client's symptoms and recent trauma, FES is a likely complication and requires immediate assessment and intervention.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
A personal trainer working with a client who has HIV is at low risk for contracting the virus. HIV is not transmitted through casual contact, sweat, or saliva. The risk would increase only if there were exposure to blood or other body fluids through an open wound or mucous membrane.
Choice B reason:
An occupational therapist working with a client who has HIV also has a low risk of contracting the virus. Similar to a personal trainer, unless there is direct exposure to blood or body fluids, the transmission risk is minimal.
Choice C reason:
A phlebotomist who collects blood from clients who have HIV is at the greatest risk among the listed individuals. Phlebotomists are healthcare professionals who are frequently exposed to blood, which is a bodily fluid that can transmit HIV if proper precautions are not taken.
Choice D reason:
A nurse who collects urine samples is at a lower risk compared to a phlebotomist. HIV is not typically transmitted through urine unless it contains blood. However, the risk is still present if there is exposure to blood-contaminated urine through cuts or mucous membranes.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.