A post-operative client is 6 hours after abdominal surgery and has not urinated. What is the nurse's FIRST action?

POST-OPERATIVE URINARY RETENTION ASSESSMENT:

Normal: Most patients void within 6-8 hours after surgery.

Assessment first: Before inserting a catheter (invasive procedure), assess: palpate suprapubic area for distension and firmness; ask if patient feels urge to void; review total fluid intake (IV + oral) since surgery.

Bladder scanner: If available, perform bladder scan to quantify volume (>300-400 mL with inability to void = retention).

Conservative interventions: Offer bedpan or urinal in a private, comfortable position; run water audibly; apply warm compress to suprapubic area; ambulate to the bathroom if safe and ordered.

Catheterization threshold: Typically if conservative measures fail AND bladder volume >500 mL OR patient has significant discomfort.

Common causes: Anesthesia (bladder relaxation); opioid medications (urethral sphincter tone increased); lying flat (difficult to void for many people); anxiety.

Pn scope: Assess, implement conservative measures, report to RN for catheterisation orders.