A postpartum patient has been unable to void since her delivery of a baby this morning.Which of the following nursing measures would be beneficial for the patient initially?
A) Increase the patient's fluid intake to 3500 mL.
B) Insert in-dwelling Foley catheter.
C) Pour warm water over the patient's perineum.
D) Apply firm pressure over the patient's bladder.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Pouring warm water over the patient's perineum is a beneficial nursing measure to initiate the micturition reflex which stimulates the urge to urinate. This can help the patient to successfully void without the need for a catheter or other invasive measures. Increasing fluid intake may help in the long run, but it may not be an immediate solution. Inserting an in-dwelling Foley catheter should be a last resort and only implemented after other non-invasive methods have been attempted. Applying firm pressure over the patient's bladder is not recommended and may cause discomfort or even injury.

A Postpartum Patient Has Been Unable to Void Since Her