The nurse observes a distended bladder and no change in urine output in a patient with an indwelling urinary catheter and drainage system. What should the nurse do first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The first thing the nurse should do is assess the catheter tubing for any kinks, bends or resistance to flow. The nurse should also check the position of the catheter and ensure that it is draining by gravity. Often times, a simple adjustment of the tubing can resolve the distended bladder and lack of urine output. If the problem persists after these interventions, then the nurse may need to notify the physician or consider flushing the catheter with sterile saline. Changing the catheter should only be done if all other measures have been tried and failed or if there are signs of catheter malfunction or infection.

The Nurse Observes a Distended Bladder and No Change in Urine