A client who received a renal transplant two weeks ago is experiencing a rapid and sudden decrease in urine output in the catheter. Which assessment(s) should the practical nurse (PN) complete before notifying the charge nurse? Select all that apply.

Choice A reason: Driving a car is an activity that should be limited until after the first postoperative visit. Postoperative clients might experience discomfort, dizziness, or medication side effects that can impair their ability to drive safely. The stress and physical demands of driving can also affect the healing process, so it's important to avoid this activity until the healthcare provider gives clearance.
Choice B reason: Eating high-fiber foods is generally encouraged postoperatively to prevent constipation and ensure smooth bowel movements. There is no reason to limit high-fiber foods after a transurethral prostatectomy unless otherwise specified by the healthcare provider.
Choice C reason: Kegel exercises can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and are often recommended after prostate surgery to improve bladder control. However, it is important to follow the healthcare provider's guidance on when to start these exercises and how frequently they should be done.
Choice D reason: Walking around the house is a light activity that can aid in recovery by promoting circulation and preventing blood clots. It is usually recommended to start light activity soon after surgery, unless contraindicated by the healthcare provider.

Choice A reason: Assessing the mucous membranes can provide useful information about the client’s overall hydration status. Checking for signs of dehydration, such as dry or sticky mucous membranes, can indicate whether the client may need additional fluids or intervention. However, this assessment does not directly address the issue of decreased urine output in the catheter, which might be due to a blockage or mechanical issue with the catheter itself.
Choice B reason: Ensuring that the catheter tubing is straight is crucial because any kinks or bends in the tubing can obstruct the flow of urine, leading to decreased urine output. This is a simple yet essential step that can be quickly performed by the practical nurse to rule out mechanical obstruction as the cause of the problem. By straightening the tubing, the nurse can help restore proper urine flow without the need for further invasive interventions.
Choice C reason: Auscultating lung sounds is an important assessment to determine if the client has any respiratory complications, such as fluid overload or pneumonia, which can sometimes occur post-transplant. While this is a critical assessment for overall health, it does not directly address the immediate issue of decreased urine output in the catheter. It is important to prioritize assessments that are directly related to the symptom being observed.
Choice D reason: Determining the dryness of bed linens can help assess if there has been any urine leakage around the catheter site or if the catheter is not functioning properly. Wet bed linens might indicate that the urine is bypassing the catheter or that there is a leak in the system. However, this assessment alone may not provide enough information to address the decreased urine output and should be combined with other assessments like ensuring the catheter tubing is straight.
Choice E reason: Irrigating the catheter to assess patency is a direct and immediate action that can help identify if the catheter is blocked. If there is resistance during irrigation, it indicates that the catheter may be obstructed, and further action is required to clear the blockage. This assessment can help resolve the issue of decreased urine output and is a practical step before notifying the charge nurse, as it provides a clear indication of the catheter's functionality.