Which of the following statements should the nurse use to instruct the

Which of the following statements should the nurse use to instruct the nursing assistant caring for a client with an indwelling urinary catheter?

1. Empty the drainage bag at least every 8 hours.
2. Clean up the length of the catheter to the perineum.
3. Use clean technique to obtain a specimen for culture and sensitivity.
4. Place the drainage bag on the client’s lap while transporting the client to testing.

ANSWER

ANS: 1
The urinary drainage bag should be emptied at least every 8 hours. If large outputs are noted, more frequent emptying will be required. The perineum should be cleansed and then down the catheter for a length of approximately 10 cm (4 inches). Only use sterile technique to collect specimens from a closed drainage system. Avoid raising the drainage bag above the level of the bladder. If it becomes necessary to raise the bag during transfer of the client to a bed or stretcher, clamp the tubing or empty the tubing contents to the drainage bag first. The drainage bag can be attached to the wheelchair below the level of the client’s bladder for transport. It should not be placed on the client’s lap.