Which assessment technique would provide the most useful data when the nurse is concerned about possible urinary retention?
Auscultate an area six inches below the umbilicus.
Observe the appearance of the patient’s urine.
Palpate the area above the pubic symphysis.
Measure the girth of the patient’s lower abdomen.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Auscultating an area six inches below the umbilicus would not provide the most useful data when assessing for possible urinary retention. Auscultation is typically used to assess bowel sounds and not typically used in the assessment of urinary retention.
Choice B rationale
Observing the appearance of the patient’s urine can provide some information about the patient’s hydration status and kidney function, but it would not be the most useful technique for assessing urinary retention.
Choice C rationale
Palpating the area above the pubic symphysis can provide useful data when assessing for possible urinary retention. If the bladder is distended due to urinary retention, it may be palpable in this area.
Choice D rationale
Measuring the girth of the patient’s lower abdomen is not typically used as a method to assess for urinary retention. While an increase in abdominal girth can occur with urinary retention, it is not the most direct or reliable method for assessment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is A. The nurse should first implement the prescription of Cefazolin 1 gram intravenously every 6 hours.
This is because, on admission of a patient to the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) from surgery, the first priority is to assess the airway and breathing status. Administering Cefazolin, an antibiotic, helps prevent postoperative infections, which is crucial in the immediate postoperative period.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Uterine atony refers to a condition where the uterus fails to contract sufficiently during and after childbirth. This lack of contraction can lead to excessive bleeding, also known as postpartum hemorrhage. This is because the contractions of the uterus after delivery help to compress the blood vessels and prevent bleeding. Therefore, uterine atony can cause a patient to hemorrhage.
Choice B rationale
Wound dehiscence refers to a surgical complication where an incision reopens either internally or externally. It can cause pain, infection, and organ protrusion. However, it is not directly associated with hemorrhaging.
Choice C rationale
Infection refers to the invasion of tissues by pathogens, their multiplication, and the reaction of host tissues to the infectious agent and the toxins they produce. While severe infections can lead to sepsis and disseminated intravascular coagulation, which can cause bleeding, they do not directly cause hemorrhaging.
Choice D rationale
Hemorrhage is a symptom, not a condition. It refers to excessive bleeding which can occur due to various conditions, including uterine atony.
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.