Final answer:
The correct nursing action for a postoperative THA patient unable to urinate is to encourage increased fluid intake. If the condition persists, medical interventions such as diuretics or indwelling catheter may be considered.
Step-by-step explanation:
The appropriate nursing action for a patient who is unable to urinate postoperatively following a total hip arthroplasty (THA) would be primarily focused on assessing the cause of urinary retention and addressing it to prevent complications. Initially, a nurse should start with the least invasive measures. Encouraging increased fluid intake may help in promoting urination by increasing bladder filling, which can stimulate the natural urge to urinate.
If urinary retention persists, more direct interventions may be necessary. While administering a diuretic can increase urine production, it is not typically the first line of action for postoperative urinary retention and should be used judiciously under physician's orders based on the patient's condition. Inserting an indwelling catheter is often considered if the patient's bladder is distended and non-invasive measures are unsuccessful, as it provides immediate relief of bladder distension and prevention of urinary complications. Lastly, performing perineal massage is generally not indicated for this condition and would not address the issue effectively.