RN ATI Capstone Proctored Comprehensive Assessment 2019 A with NGN Related

Review RN ATI Capstone Proctored Comprehensive Assessment 2019 A with NGN related questions and content

A patient with a urinary catheter reports discomfort. What is the nurse's priority action?

  • A. Ensure the catheter tubing is not kinked.
  • B. Irrigate the catheter to relieve the discomfort.
  • C. Change the catheter to a smaller size.
  • D. Remove the catheter and replace it with a new one.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to ensure the catheter tubing is not kinked. This is the priority action because a kinked tubing can obstruct urine flow, leading to discomfort and potential complications. It is essential to troubleshoot the current catheter first before considering other interventions. Irrigating the catheter (Choice B) may not address the underlying issue of kinking. Changing the catheter to a smaller size (Choice C) or removing and replacing it with a new one (Choice D) should only be considered if ensuring the tubing is unkinked does not resolve the discomfort.