After a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), a patient with continuous bladder irrigation complains of painful bladder spasms. The nurse observes a decrease in urine output and clots in the urine. Which action should the nurse take first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The assessment suggests that obstruction by a clot is causing the bladder spasms, and the nurse's first action should be to irrigate the catheter manually and to try to remove the clots. IV morphine will not decrease the spasm, although pain may be reduced. Increasing the flow rate of the irrigation will further distend the bladder and may increase spasms. The belladonna and opium suppository will decrease bladder spasms but will not remove the obstructing blood clot.

After a Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP), a Patient