Final answer:
In continuous bladder irrigation (CBI), the presence of blood clots in the catheter tubing indicates the need for the nurse to increase the irrigation flow. Other symptoms such as bladder spasms, pain at the catheter insertion site, or a slightly elevated temperature may indicate different issues such as an overfilled bladder or a potential infection.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of continuous bladder irrigation (CBI), finding blood clots in the catheter tubing is the sign that indicates a need for the nurse to increase the flow. Continuous bladder irrigation serves the purpose of clearing clots and debris from the bladder to prevent obstruction, hence, if blood clots are forming in the catheter tubing, it suggests the need for an increment in the irrigating flow to effectively remove the clots.
Bladder spasms could simply be a reaction to the presence of the catheter and may also happen if the bladder is overfilled which could be resolved by adjusting the fluid balance. Pain at the catheter insertion site may suggest infection, inflammation, or movement of the catheter. A temperature of 99.8° F, while near the upper limit of normal, could also be a sign of an infection and necessitates monitoring but does not indicate a need to increase the CBI flow.
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