In assessing a client with an indwelling urinary catheter following the provision of care by an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP), the practical nurse (PN) observes that the catheter drainage bag, which is half- full, is attached to the side rail and the tubing is looped on the bed. Which action should the PN implement?
Explanation & Rationale
The correct answer is choice d. Attach the drainage bag to the bed frame. Choice A rationale: Applying gloves and emptying the drainage bag is not the immediate priority. The drainage bag should not be allowed to overfill, but in this scenario, it is only half-full. Choice B rationale: Removing the looped tubing from the bed is important to ensure proper drainage and prevent backflow, but it does not address the incorrect placement of the drainage bag. Choice C rationale: Measuring the urinary output in the bag is a routine task but does not correct the improper placement of the drainage bag. Choice D rationale: Attaching the drainage bag to the bed frame is the correct action. The drainage bag should be kept below the level of the bladder and attached to a non-movable part of the bed to prevent backflow and reduce the risk of infection.