A community hit by a hurricane has suffered mass destruction and flooding. Sewage facilities are non-functioning, and water is contaminated in the area. The practical nurse (PN) is assisting with the plan of care for clients diagnosed with cholera after an outbreak. Which intervention has the highest priority?

The correct answer is choice B. Attach the drainage bag to the bed frame.

Choice A rationale:

Measuring the urinary output in the bag is a routine task but does not address the improper placement of the drainage bag. The immediate concern is to ensure the drainage bag is correctly positioned to prevent complications.

Choice B rationale:

Attaching the drainage bag to the bed frame is the correct action. The drainage bag should be kept below the level of the bladder and attached to a non-movable part of the bed to prevent backflow and reduce the risk of infection.

Choice C rationale:

Applying gloves and emptying the drainage bag is not the immediate priority. The drainage bag should not be allowed to overfill, but in this scenario, it is only half-full, so this action is not urgent.

Choice D rationale:

Removing the looped tubing from the bed is important to ensure proper drainage and prevent backflow, but it does not address the incorrect placement of the drainage bag, which is the primary concern in this situation.

The correct answers are Choice B and D:

Choice B: Report the appearance of the dressing to the charge nurse,

Choice D: Compress the drainage device before closing the tab.

Choice A rationale:

Documenting the appearance of the wound as inflamed is not appropriate. As a practical nurse, the immediate concern is to take action and report any concerning findings to the appropriate healthcare provider rather than just documenting it.

Choice B rationale:

Reporting the appearance of the dressing to the charge nurse is essential. The charge nurse or a more experienced healthcare provider needs to be informed of any abnormal findings or signs of infection for further evaluation and appropriate intervention.

Choice C rationale:

Removing the drainage device and applying a pressure dressing is not within the scope of practice for a practical nurse. These actions require a higher level of expertise and are typically performed by a registered nurse or healthcare provider.

Choice D rationale:

Compressing the drainage device before closing the tab is a correct action. This helps to ensure that the device is functioning properly, and there are no leaks or obstructions in the drainage system.

Choice E rationale:

Clamping the drainage tubing for the next four hours is not recommended unless specifically ordered by a healthcare provider. Clamping the drainage tubing without appropriate orders may disrupt the normal drainage process and cause complications.