Question

The nurse suspects that a patient has a distended bladder. How should the nurse assess for this condition?

1.
Percuss and palpate in the lumbar region.
2.
Inspect and palpate in the epigastric region.
3.
Auscultate and percuss in the inguinal region.
4.
Percuss and palpate in the hypogastric region.

Answer 1

To assess for a distended bladder, the nurse should percuss and palpate in the hypogastric region, where the bladder is located, to detect tenderness or fluid presence.

Step-by-step explanation:

To assess a patient for a suspected distended bladder, the nurse should use the technique of percussion and palpation in the hypogastric region. This is because the urinary bladder is located in the lower abdominal area just above the pelvic bone. Palpating this area can reveal tenderness or distention, and percussion can indicate the presence of fluid. This assessment should be done carefully and professionally to ensure patient comfort and to avoid misdiagnosis.