The nurse is caring for a patient in the post-anesthesia recovery unit. The nurse notes that the patient received atropine sulfate 2 mg 30 minutes prior to anesthesia induction. The patient has received 1000 mL of intravenous fluids and has 700 mL of urine in the urinary catheter bag. The patient reports having a dry mouth. The nurse notes a heart rate of 82 beats per minute. What action will the nurse perform?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Atropine can cause urinary retention, so palpating the bladder will help assess if the patient is retaining urine despite the output.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient in the Post-Anesthesia