A nurse is admitting a school-age child who has bacterial meningitis. Which of the following types of isolation precautions should the nurse initiate?

A. Obtain urinary samples by disconnecting the tubing connections:
This action increases the risk of contamination and introduces bacteria into the urinary system, potentially leading to UTIs. Urine samples should be obtained using a sterile technique to minimize the risk of infection.

B. Secure the catheter to the client's thigh:
Securing the catheter to the client's thigh can cause tension and traction on the catheter, increasing the risk of urethral trauma and introducing bacteria into the urinary tract. Catheters should be secured without tension to prevent damage to the urethra and reduce the risk of UTIs.

C. Keep the urinary bag at bladder level when ambulating:
Keeping the urinary bag at bladder level when ambulating prevents urine from flowing back into the bladder, reducing the risk of UTIs. Gravity drainage helps maintain the flow of urine and prevents stasis, which can contribute to bacterial growth and UTIs.

D. Loop the tubing so that it is lower than the collection bag:
Looping the tubing so that it is lower than the collection bag creates a dependent loop where urine can accumulate, increasing the risk of bacterial colonization and UTIs. The tubing should be kept straight and free of kinks to ensure continuous drainage and prevent urine from pooling in the tubing.

Correct Answer: B. Position the sterile drape leaving the perineum exposed.

Rationales

A. Lubricate the catheter with water-soluble gel.
Lubrication is important to reduce urethral trauma, but this is not the first step once the sterile field is prepared. It comes after draping and cleansing, just before catheter insertion.

B. Position the sterile drape leaving the perineum exposed.
This is the first action after donning sterile gloves and preparing the field. Draping maintains a sterile environment and provides access to the insertion site. Ensuring sterility from the beginning is critical for preventing catheter-associated infections.

C. Cleanse the client’s meatus with antiseptic solution.
Cleansing the meatus is done after draping to reduce the risk of introducing microorganisms during catheter insertion. Although essential, it is not the very first step once the sterile procedure begins.

D. Attach a prefilled syringe to the catheter inflation hub.
The balloon should not be prepared or inflated until after the catheter has been inserted and urine return is observed. Attaching the syringe too early may risk accidental inflation outside the bladder.