A nurse is admitting a client who reports recurrent flank pain and nausea for 24 hr. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Choice A rationale
Phenazopyridine hydrochloride does not turn the urine purple. This color change is not associated with the medication.

Choice B rationale
Phenazopyridine hydrochloride turns the urine orange. This is a common and expected side effect of the medication and is harmless.
Choice C rationale
Phenazopyridine hydrochloride does not turn the urine blue. This color change is not associated with the medication.
Choice D rationale
Phenazopyridine hydrochloride does not turn the urine green. This color change is not associated with the medication.

Choice A rationale

Contacting the surgeon if the client reports a continual need to void is not necessary unless it is accompanied by other symptoms such as pain or discomfort. The sensation of needing to void can be common after a TURP due to the presence of the catheter and bladder irrigation. This sensation usually resolves as the bladder heals and adjusts to the catheter.
Choice B rationale
Using sterile technique when preparing the irrigation solution is crucial to prevent infection. Sterile technique ensures that no pathogens are introduced into the bladder, which could lead to complications such as urinary tract infections or sepsis. Maintaining a sterile environment is a fundamental aspect of postoperative care, especially when dealing with invasive procedures like TURP1.
Choice C rationale
Adding the amount of bladder irrigation to the total output is incorrect. The correct practice is to subtract the amount of irrigation solution used from the total output to determine the actual urine output. This helps in accurately monitoring the client’s fluid balance and kidney function. Incorrectly adding the irrigation amount could lead to misinterpretation of the client’s urinary output and fluid status.
Choice D rationale
Notifying the surgeon if the urine is bright red or has large clots is essential. Bright red urine or large clots can indicate active bleeding, which is a potential complication after TURP. Early detection and intervention are crucial to prevent significant blood loss and other complications. The nurse should monitor the urine color and consistency closely and report any abnormalities immediately.
Choice E rationale

Ensuring the drainage tubing is patent and without obstruction is vital for the effectiveness of continuous bladder irrigation. Obstructions in the tubing can lead to bladder distention, discomfort, and potential damage to the bladder and urethra. Regularly checking the tubing for kinks or blockages and ensuring a free flow of irrigation solution helps maintain proper bladder function and prevent complications.