ATI RN Maternal Newborn 2023/24 1st Attempt & Retake Related

Review ATI RN Maternal Newborn 2023/24 1st Attempt & Retake related questions and content

A nurse is assessing a client who is postpartum following a cesarean birth. The client states, 'I feel like I have to urinate but I can’t go.' Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

  • A. Assist the client to ambulate to the bathroom
  • B. Insert an indwelling urinary catheter
  • C. Perform a bladder scan to assess for urinary retention
  • D. Administer a diuretic
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Correct Answer: A. Assist the client to ambulate to the bathroom.
Rationale: By assisting the client to ambulate to the bathroom, the nurse is promoting normal physiological functioning. Walking can help stimulate the bladder and promote urination, which is often needed after a cesarean birth due to the effects of anesthesia and limited mobility. It also helps prevent complications like urinary retention or urinary tract infections. Encouraging the client to move also aids in promoting circulation, preventing blood clots, and enhancing overall recovery.
Summary of other choices:
B: Inserting an indwelling catheter should not be the first intervention as it can increase the risk of infection and discomfort.
C: Performing a bladder scan is not necessary as the client's symptoms do not indicate a need for immediate assessment of urine volume.
D: Administering a diuretic is not appropriate without assessing the client's condition further as it may not address the underlying issue and could exacerbate any existing problems.