The nurse notes that a patient's indwelling urinary catheter tubing contains sediment and crusting is present at the meatus.Which action should the nurse take?

A) Notify the provider immediately.
B) Flush the catheter tubing with saline solution.
C) Replace the indwelling urinary catheter.
D) Encourage fluids that increase urine acidity.

Question

Jennifer Espinoza · Accepted Answer

Final Answer : C, Explanation :  Presence of sediment and crusting may indicate a blockage in the catheter or an infection. The best course of action is to replace the catheter to prevent further complications. Notifying the provider is also important but replacement of the catheter takes priority. Flushing the catheter with saline solution or encouraging fluids that increase urine acidity may not necessarily address the underlying issue and can potentially cause harm.

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