A nurse is inserting an indwelling urinary catheter for a male client.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale:

Administering a laxative to a client with acute appendicitis is contraindicated. Laxatives can increase bowel motility, which may aggravate the inflamed appendix and lead to rupture. Rupture of the appendix can result in a life-threatening condition known as peritonitis.

Choice B rationale:

Keeping the client on NPO (nothing by mouth) status is the correct choice. NPO status is essential in the management of acute appendicitis. It helps to rest the bowel, prevents stimulation of the appendix, and decreases the risk of rupture. Oral intake, including food and fluids, is usually restricted until the client undergoes surgery to remove the inflamed appendix (appendectomy).

Choice C rationale:

Placing the client's head of bed flat is not the optimal position for a client with acute appendicitis. Elevating the head of the bed slightly (semi-Fowler's position) can help reduce discomfort and minimize pressure on the abdomen. This position is more comfortable for the client and can aid in pain management.

Choice D rationale:

Applying heat to the client's abdomen is not recommended in acute appendicitis. Heat application can increase blood flow to the area, potentially worsening inflammation and exacerbating pain. Cold packs or ice packs are sometimes used to provide comfort, but their application should be done cautiously to avoid skin damage. However, in many cases, healthcare providers prefer to avoid temperature applications to prevent masking symptoms and signs of worsening appendicitis.

Choice A rationale:

Maintaining the irrigation solution rate is appropriate in this situation. Pink-tinged urine in the drainage bag indicates the presence of blood, which is expected after a transurethral resection of the prostate. However, if the bleeding becomes excessive, the healthcare provider should be notified. Adjusting the irrigation solution rate might be necessary based on the provider's orders, but abruptly changing the rate without medical direction could lead to complications.

Choice B rationale:

Replacing the indwelling urinary catheter is not necessary solely based on the presence of pink-tinged urine. It is essential to assess the patient's overall condition and the extent of bleeding before considering catheter replacement. Catheter replacement without a valid reason can increase the risk of infection and discomfort for the patient.

Choice C rationale:

Performing the Credé's maneuver involves manual compression of the bladder to assist with urine elimination. This maneuver is not indicated in this situation and could potentially cause harm or disrupt the continuous bladder irrigation. It is essential to follow evidence-based practices and avoid interventions that are not appropriate for the patient's condition.

Choice D rationale:

Warming the irrigation solution is not relevant to the situation described. The presence of pink-tinged urine suggests bleeding, which requires careful monitoring and appropriate medical intervention. Warming the solution does not address the underlying cause of the bleeding and should not be the nurse's primary concern in this scenario.