A Foley catheter has been ordered for a patient with a hip fracture. Which action will the nurse take to prevent a catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI)?
Remove the catheter when it is no longer needed.
Perform catheter care only one time during the 12-hour shift.
Keep the catheter drainage bag on the bed, under the blanket.
Insert the catheter using gloves out of the box on the wall.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Removing the catheter as soon as it is no longer needed is the most effective way to prevent CAUTIs. Indwelling catheters increase the risk of infection because they provide a direct pathway for bacteria to enter the urinary tract. Early removal reduces exposure time and minimizes complications such as bacteriuria, sepsis, and prolonged hospitalization. This aligns with evidence-based practice guidelines that emphasize minimizing catheter use.
Choice B reason: Performing catheter care only once in a 12-hour shift is inadequate. Catheter care should be performed regularly, typically every shift or more often depending on patient needs, to maintain hygiene and reduce bacterial colonization. Infrequent care increases the risk of infection and does not meet standards of nursing practice.
Choice C reason: Keeping the drainage bag on the bed under the blanket is unsafe. The drainage bag must always be kept below the level of the bladder to prevent backflow of urine, which can introduce bacteria into the bladder. Placing the bag on the bed also increases contamination risk from bedding and patient movement.
Choice D reason: Inserting the catheter using gloves directly from the wall box is inappropriate because sterile technique must be used. Catheter insertion requires sterile gloves and equipment to prevent introducing pathogens into the urinary tract. Using non-sterile gloves violates infection control standards and increases the risk of CAUTI.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: The Joint Commission’s National Patient Safety Goals emphasize using at least two patient identifiers when administering medications or treatments to ensure accuracy and prevent errors. Using only one identifier increases risk of mistakes. This practice directly supports patient safety.
Choice B reason: Suicide risk must be considered across all populations, including geriatric patients. Ignoring suicide risk in older adults is unsafe and violates safety standards.
Choice C reason: While caution is important when caring for patients on anticoagulants, this is not a specific Joint Commission safety goal. It is part of general nursing vigilance but not a mandated safety practice.
Choice D reason: Avoiding repositioning to allow sleep increases risk of pressure ulcers and is unsafe. The Joint Commission emphasizes prevention of harm, including pressure injury prevention, so this practice contradicts safety goals.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Asking if the patient needs assistance with prescriptions is practical and demonstrates support for patient-centered care. It is respectful and appropriate.
Choice B reason: Questioning or criticizing a patient’s use of herbal medications is judgmental and culturally insensitive. It can create a barrier to effective communication and trust.
Choice C reason: Asking about practices and beliefs related to health is culturally sensitive and helps the nurse provide care that aligns with the patient’s values.
Choice D reason: Inquiring about dietary restrictions is relevant for patient safety and care planning. It respects cultural, religious, and personal preferences.
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