NCLEX RN Exam Prep Related

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A nurse is preparing to irrigate a client's indwelling catheter through a closed, intermittent system. Which of the following steps must the nurse take as part of this process?

  • A. Use sterile solution at room temperature
  • B. Position the client in a comfortable position
  • C. Clamp the catheter at the level above the injection port
  • D. Inject sterile solution through the injection port into the catheter
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: When performing closed intermittent system catheter irrigation, the nurse should use sterile solution at room temperature with sterile technique. It is important to position the client comfortably for easy access to the catheter site and to assess the abdomen during the procedure. Clamping the catheter should be done below the level of the injection port, not above. The correct step is to inject sterile solution through the injection port into the catheter, allowing the fluid to travel up the catheter to irrigate the tubing and the bladder.