Question

The nurse has implemented a bladder retraining program for an older adult patient. The nurse places the patient on a timed voiding schedule and performs an ultrasonic bladder scan after each void. The nurse notes that the patient typically has approximately 50 mL of urine remaining in her bladder after voiding. What would be the nurse's best response to this finding?

A) Perform a straight catheterization on this patient.
B) Avoid further interventions at this time, as this is an acceptable finding.
C) Place an indwelling urinary catheter.
D) Press on the patient's bladder in an attempt to encourage complete emptying.

Answer 1

The nurse's best response to the finding of 50 mL of urine post-void residual during a bladder retraining program would be to avoid further interventions, as this amount is considered within normal limits.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse has implemented a bladder retraining program for an older adult patient. A bladder scan after voiding shows approximately 50 mL of urine remaining in the bladder, known as post-void residual (PVR). In the context of bladder retraining, a PVR of 50 mL can be considered within normal limits, as normal PVR values are generally less than 100 mL. Thus, the nurse's best response to this finding would be to avoid further interventions at this time, as this is an acceptable finding. Straight catheterization, placement of an indwelling urinary catheter, or pressing on the patient's bladder are not indicated at this time and could disrupt the retraining process or introduce unnecessary risks.