HESI Fundamentals Test Bank Related

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A client has just returned from surgery with an indwelling urinary catheter in place. What is the most important action for the nurse to take to prevent infection?

  • A. Change the catheter every 72 hours.
  • B. Ensure the catheter tubing is free of kinks.
  • C. Clean the perineal area with antiseptic solution daily.
  • D. Irrigate the catheter with normal saline every shift.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The most crucial action to prevent infection in a client with an indwelling urinary catheter is to ensure the catheter tubing is free of kinks. Kinks in the tubing can lead to urine retention or obstruction, increasing the risk of infection. Changing the catheter every 72 hours is not necessary if there are no signs of infection or other issues. Cleaning the perineal area with antiseptic solution daily is important for hygiene but not the most critical action to prevent infection related to the catheter. Irrigating the catheter with normal saline every shift is not a routine practice and may increase the risk of introducing pathogens into the urinary system.