Question

A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving continuous bladder irrigation following a transurethral resection of the prostate. The client reports bladder spasms, and the nurse observes a decreased urinary output. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

a. Increase the rate of bladder irrigation
b. Administer an opioid analgesic
c. Encourage increased oral fluid intake
d. Notify the provider of the findings

Answer 1

The nurse should notify the provider when a client receiving continuous bladder irrigation reports bladder spasms and has a decreased urinary output.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should notify the provider of the findings when a client who is receiving continuous bladder irrigation following a transurethral resection of the prostate reports bladder spasms and has a decreased urinary output.

Decreased urinary output and bladder spasms can signal a potential complication, such as a clot obstructing the urinary catheter or bladder, or bladder perforation. The provider needs to be informed so that appropriate interventions can be initiated.

Increasing the rate of bladder irrigation, administering an opioid analgesic, or encouraging increased oral fluid intake may not address the underlying cause of the symptoms, and may require further assessment and intervention.