A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled for surgery the following day. During the night, the client is unable to sleep and is restless. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

The correct answer is choice d. Notify the charge nurse of the client’s concerns.

Choice A rationale:

Offering information about alternative therapies is not appropriate in this situation. The nurse’s role is to ensure the client understands the current procedure and to address their concerns, not to suggest alternatives unless directed by the healthcare provider.

Choice B rationale:

Contacting a family member to convince the client to change their mind is not ethical. The decision to proceed with surgery should be made by the client, based on their understanding and consent, not under pressure from family members.

Choice C rationale:

Telling the client the benefits of the surgery might be helpful, but it does not address the client’s lack of understanding about the procedure. The nurse should ensure the client has all the necessary information to make an informed decision.

Choice D rationale:

Notifying the charge nurse of the client’s concerns is the correct action. The charge nurse can facilitate further discussion with the surgeon to ensure the client receives the necessary information and support to make an informed decision. This ensures that the client’s autonomy and right to informed consent are respected.

The correct answer is choice B: Empty the drainage bag when it is three-fourths full.

Choice A rationale:

Cleaning the perineal area at least once a day is important for maintaining hygiene, but it is not the most relevant action in this scenario. The focus here is on managing the urinary catheter and its drainage bag.

Choice B rationale:

Emptying the drainage bag when it is three-fourths full is the correct action. An indwelling urinary catheter requires regular drainage to prevent the risk of infection and blockages. Allowing the bag to become too full could lead to backflow and increase the likelihood of urinary tract infections.

Choice C rationale:

Flushing the catheter with sterile water daily is not typically part of routine catheter care. Catheter flushing might be done for specific medical reasons, but it is not a general guideline for indwelling catheters.

Choice D rationale:

Disconnecting the drainage bag when emptying and measuring urine is incorrect. Maintaining a closed system is crucial to prevent introducing bacteria into the urinary tract. Disconnecting the bag could increase the risk of infection.