A nurse is caring for a client who is 1 day postoperative following a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) and has a continuous bladder irrigation in place. Which of the following actions should the nurse take? (Select all that apply.)
Explanation & Rationale
A. Contact the surgeon if the client reports a continual need to void: Continuous urge to void can indicate bladder spasms or obstruction in the catheter system. Promptly notifying the surgeon ensures timely intervention to prevent complications such as increased bleeding or urinary retention. B. Notify the surgeon if the urine is bright red or has large clots: Bright red urine or large clots may signal active bleeding post-TURP. Immediate reporting is essential to prevent hemorrhage, clot retention, and potential bladder obstruction, which can become life-threatening if untreated. C. Add the amount of bladder irrigation to the total output: The volume of irrigation solution should not be included in the total urinary output because it does not represent the client’s actual urine production. Accurate measurement of urine output is critical for monitoring kidney function and fluid balance. D. Make sure the drainage tubing is patent and without obstruction: Ensuring catheter and tubing patency is vital to prevent urinary retention, bladder distention, and backflow, which can increase the risk of bleeding and infection. Regular assessment of patency supports safe and effective bladder irrigation. E. Use sterile technique when preparing the irrigation solution: Maintaining sterility when preparing the irrigation solution prevents introducing pathogens into the bladder, reducing the risk of urinary tract infection and promoting safe postoperative care.