Which assessment technique provides the most useful data when the nurse is concerned about possible urinary retention?

A. Measuring the girth of the lower abdomen can provide some information but is not the most direct assessment for urinary retention. B. Palpating the area above the pubic symphysis allows the nurse to assess for bladder distension, which is a direct indicator of urinary retention. C. Auscultating an area six inches below the umbilicus is not a standard assessment technique for urinary retention. D. Observing the appearance of the urine can provide information about urinary output but does not directly assess for retention.