The patient is having lower abdominal surgery and the nurse inserts an indwelling catheter. What is the rationale for the nurse's action?

A) The patient may void uncontrollably during the procedure.
B) Local trauma sometimes promotes excessive urine incontinence.
C) Anesthetics can decrease bladder contractility and cause urinary retention.
D) The patient will not interrupt the procedure by asking to go to the bathroom.

Question

Michael Masha · Accepted Answer

Final Answer : C, Explanation :  Anesthetic agents and other agents given during surgery can decrease bladder contractility and/or sensation of bladder fullness, causing urinary retention. Local trauma during lower abdominal and pelvic surgery sometimes obstructs urine flow, requiring temporary use of an indwelling urinary catheter. The patient is more likely to retain urine rather than experience uncontrollable voiding.

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