Question

A client who had a transurethral resection of the prostate is transferred to the postanesthesia care unit with an intravenous (IV) line and a urinary retention catheter. For which major complication is it most important for the nurse to assess during the immediate postoperative period?

1. Sepsis
2. Phlebitis
3. Hemorrhage
4. Leakage around the IV catheter

Answer 1

In the immediate postoperative period after a transurethral resection of the prostate, it's most important to assess for hemorrhage (option 3) , which is a significant risk due to the nature of the surgery.

Step-by-step explanation:

For a patient who had a transurethral resection of the prostate, it is most important for the nurse to assess for the major complication of hemorrhage during the immediate postoperative period. The procedure involves surgical removal of part of the prostate gland, which can lead to significant bleeding. It's crucial to monitor the patient's vital signs, inspect the surgical site, and check the urinary output for signs of active bleeding.



Compared to other potential complications like sepsis, phlebitis, and leakage around the IV catheter, hemorrhage poses an immediate risk and can quickly become life-threatening if not managed promptly. Nurses and healthcare providers should also be aware of the risk of catheter-related bloodstream infections and take necessary precautions to maintain sterility and prevent infections.