The nurse is scheduled to perform a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) on a toddler. What education will the nurse provide to the parents prior to the procedure?

Choice A rationale A voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) involves inserting a catheter into the bladder to instill contrast medium, and then fluoroscopic images are taken while the client is voiding. Therefore, the bladder must be empty initially to accommodate the contrast and to allow for proper visualization of the urethra during urination. Choice B rationale The VCUG procedure is typically performed to evaluate for vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) or other structural urinary tract abnormalities, not to diagnose an active infection. Performing the procedure on a client with an active infection can introduce bacteria into the upper urinary tract or worsen discomfort, so it is often postponed. Choice C rationale The bladder should be empty or at least not full prior to the procedure. The contrast medium is instilled via catheter until the bladder is comfortably full. Instructing the client to arrive with a full bladder would interfere with the controlled administration and volume required for the diagnostic images. Choice D rationale Analgesia is typically not provided for a VCUG. The procedure involves catheter insertion and bladder filling, which may cause brief discomfort or urgency but is generally not painful enough to require general analgesia. The nurse should focus on explaining expected sensations, like feeling the need to urinate. .