A nurse is caring for an infant who has gastroenteritis. Which of the following assessment findings should the nurse report to the provider?

Upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy: This procedure is often indicated for patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of gastrointestinal bleeding, such as dark, tarry stools (melena), which can indicate bleeding in the upper GI tract.

Dark tarry stool: This finding suggests the presence of digested blood, which typically originates from the upper GI tract. This symptom, along with a history of abdominal pain that worsens after eating, indicates a potential peptic ulcer or other upper GI pathology.

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.