The nurse is caring for an older adult who is recovering from hip ...

[APUS57]

The nurse is caring for an older adult who is recovering from hip replacement surgery. The client shares with the nurse that he has been using the urinal a lot but I feel like my bladder isn't emp-ty.
 
  Which of the following statements by the nurse shows the best understanding of the appropriate initial intervention for this particular client?
  1. I'll call your primary care provider and let her know you are having this prob-lem.
  2. I have the ancillary personnel measure your output, so please don't empty your urinal yourself.
  3. I'm going to ask that you please use your call bell and notify me or the ancillary staff each time you void.
  4. I suggest that we try limiting the amount of fluids you are drinking for a few hours and see if that helps.

Question 2

A 70-year-old client is discussing his recent difficulty in initiating his flow of urine while on a cross-country bus tour with a senior citizens' group. Which of the following assessment questions is directed toward the most likely cause of the problem?
 
  1. Did the bus stop frequently so you could get up and walk around?
  2. Did you drink plenty of water while you were on the trip?
  3. Do you find using public restrooms unsettling?
  4. Do you have any chronic urinary problems?

[cloudre37]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: 3
With retention the client may void small amounts of urine 2 or 3 times an hour with no real relief of discomfort or may continually dribble urine. Be aware of the volume and frequency of voiding to assess this condition in the client. The alert, oriented client can be asked to notify the nurse each time micturition occurs. The notification of the primary care provider is not the initial inter-vention. Although measuring the urine output is not inappropriate, it is not specific to this client's complaint. Restricting fluids is neither appropriate nor likely to affect the problem.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: 3
Attempting to void in a public restroom sometimes results in a temporary inability to void. Alt-hough the remaining options may affect urination, this situation strongly suggests an emotional cause.