A nurse is flushing a client's intermittent infusion device. The client states, "Why do you have to do that if you are not giving me medicine?" Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

Rationale:

A. "Attempt to void every 2 hours.": Scheduled voiding helps reduce the likelihood of bladder overfilling and decreases episodes of leakage, especially in stress incontinence where physical pressure causes urine loss.

B. "Perform Kegel exercises several times daily.": Kegel exercises strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which support the bladder and urethra. Regular practice improves muscle tone and helps control urine leakage during activities like coughing or sneezing.

C. "Maintain a daily fluid intake of 1,000 to 1,200 mL/day.": Limiting fluids excessively can lead to concentrated urine and bladder irritation, increasing urgency and risk of infection. A moderate, well-balanced intake closer to 1,500–2,000 mL/day is generally recommended.

D. "Take prescribed diuretics no later than 2000.": While relevant for fluid management, it's not a direct or primary instruction specifically for treating or managing stress incontinence itself. Diuretics increase urine production, which could potentially worsen incontinence.

E. "Maintain optimal body weight for height.": Excess weight increases abdominal pressure on the bladder, worsening stress incontinence. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce symptoms and support pelvic muscle strength.

Rationale:

A. "Maintain the client in a supine position for 24 hours following surgery.": Prolonged supine positioning increases the risk of pulmonary complications such as atelectasis. Early mobilization and elevating the head of the bed help promote lung expansion and reduce postoperative risks.

B. "Expect the client to have a palpable distended bladder following surgery.": A distended bladder is not expected and may indicate urinary retention, a common complication after anesthesia. The nurse should assess and address it promptly, rather than consider it normal.

C. "Report bleeding that saturates the client's dressing.": Active bleeding that saturates a postoperative dressing may indicate hemorrhage and requires immediate intervention. Reporting this finding is critical to prevent further complications like hypovolemia or shock.

D. "Ensure the client's urinary output is no less than 20 mL per hour.": Urine output should be at least 30 mL per hour in adults. A rate below this may indicate hypoperfusion or renal impairment and should prompt further assessment and intervention.