A nurse is caring for a client who is 2 hours postoperative following a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) gland. Which of the following assessments should the nurse view as an indication of a postoperative complication?
Oral temperature of 38.2°C (100.76°F)
Output of burgundy-colored urine
Pulse rate of 88/min
An urge to void despite having an indwelling urinary catheter
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: An elevated oral temperature of 38.2°C (100.76°F) postoperatively can indicate an infection, which is a common complication after surgical procedures. In the context of TURP, a fever could suggest a urinary tract infection or sepsis, especially if accompanied by other symptoms such as chills or an elevated white blood cell count.
Choice B reason: The output of burgundy-colored urine can be expected in the immediate postoperative period following a TURP due to bleeding. However, it should gradually lighten in color. Persistent or worsening hematuria could indicate a complication, but it is not uncommon to see some blood in the urine shortly after the procedure
Choice C reason: A pulse rate of 88/min is within the normal range (60-100 beats per minute) and is not typically indicative of a postoperative complication. It is important to consider the patient's baseline heart rate and any other symptoms they may be experiencing.
Choice D reason: Feeling an urge to void despite having an indwelling urinary catheter can occur due to bladder spasms or irritation from the catheter itself. While uncomfortable, this sensation is not uncommon after TURP and does not necessarily indicate a complication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Adjusting the rate of the bladder irrigant may be necessary if there is an issue with the flow or the amount of fluid, but it is not the first action to take. The nurse must first ensure that there is no mechanical obstruction causing the lack of drainage.
Choice B reason:
Irrigating the catheter could be the next step if checking the tubing does not resolve the issue. However, it is not the first action to take because if there is a kink in the tubing, irrigation will not be effective and could potentially cause harm.
Choice C reason:
The first action the nurse should take is to check the tubing for kinks because this is a common and easily correctable cause of obstruction in catheter drainage. If the tubing is kinked, straightening it may allow urine to drain properly.
Choice D reason:
Notifying the provider is important if the other interventions do not resolve the issue. However, it is not the first action to take. The nurse should first perform basic troubleshooting steps to identify and correct any simple mechanical issues with the catheter system.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Purulent drainage at the intravenous site access site would indicate a more severe infection, possibly grade 3 or 4 on the Infusion Nurses Society's phlebitis scale. This would be associated with more advanced symptoms such as pus formation, which is not characteristic of grade 1 phlebitis.
Choice B reason:
Redness at the intravenous access site with pain is indicative of grade 1 phlebitis according to the Infusion Nurses Society's phlebitis scale. This grade is characterized by erythema and possible pain at the site of the IV insertion, without more severe symptoms such as swelling or streak formation.
Choice C reason:
Red streaks on the affected extremity suggest a progression of the inflammatory response, potentially indicating a higher grade of phlebitis, such as grade 2 or 3. This symptom suggests that the inflammation is spreading along the vein, which is more serious than grade 1 phlebitis.
Choice D reason:
A palpable venous cord in the affected extremity would also suggest a more severe form of phlebitis, likely grade 3. This occurs when a thrombus forms along with inflammation of the vein, leading to a palpable cord-like structure.
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