nurse is assessing a client who underwent a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) yesterday and is experiencing a burning sensation during urination. Which action should the nurse take first?

Choice A reason: Notifying the surgeon is not the first action for a burning sensation post-TURP, as it is an expected symptom due to urethral irritation. The nurse should first assess for reversible causes like catheter obstruction, which can exacerbate symptoms, before escalating to the surgeon for further evaluation. Choice B reason: Increasing irrigation flow is not the first action, as burning is expected post-TURP due to surgical trauma. Adjusting flow without assessing catheter patency risks fluid overload or worsening irritation, and the nurse must first confirm the catheter is functioning to address the symptom’s cause. Choice C reason: Administering an analgesic may alleviate discomfort, but it does not address the underlying cause of burning, which could be catheter obstruction or infection. Assessing catheter patency is the priority to ensure proper urine drainage and rule out complications before symptomatic treatment is considered. Choice D reason: Assessing catheter patency is the first action, as a blocked catheter can cause urine retention, worsening burning sensations and risking bladder distension or infection post-TURP. Ensuring free urine flow addresses potential mechanical causes of discomfort, guiding further interventions to manage symptoms effectively and prevent complications.