The nurse assesses that a patient receiving epidural morphine has not voided for more than 10 hours. What action should the nurse take initially?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Urinary retention is a common side effect of epidural opioids. Assess whether the patient feels the need to void. Because urinary retention is a possible side effect,there is no reason for concern of overdose symptoms. Placing an indwelling catheter requires an order from the health care provider. Usually an in-and-out catheter is performed to empty the bladder if the patient is unable to void because of the risk of infection with an indwelling catheter. Encouraging oral fluids may lead to bladder distention if the patient is unable to void,but might be useful if a patient who is able to void has a fluid deficit.

The Nurse Assesses That a Patient Receiving Epidural Morphine Has