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NCLEX · Reduction of Risk Potential

A client returns from surgery with a urinary catheter. Which nursing action best prevents catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI)?

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Correct answer

Keep the drainage bag below the level of the bladder, maintain a closed drainage system, and perform daily perineal hygiene — and advocate for catheter removal as soon as it is no longer needed

  1. A Clamp the catheter intermittently
  2. B Keep the drainage bag below the level of the bladder, maintain a closed drainage system, and perform daily perineal hygiene — and advocate for catheter removal as soon as it is no longer needed
  3. C Change the catheter daily
  4. D Irrigate the catheter every shift

Why this is the answer

CAUTI PREVENTION (one of the most common healthcare-associated infections):

Key measures: Keep drainage bag BELOW bladder level (prevents backflow of contaminated urine); maintain a CLOSED drainage system (don't disconnect unnecessarily); secure the catheter to prevent movement and urethral trauma; daily perineal hygiene with soap and water; ensure unobstructed urine flow (no kinks/dependent loops).

Early removal: The single most effective CAUTI prevention is removing the catheter as soon as it's no longer medically necessary — each catheter day increases infection risk.

Avoid: Routine catheter irrigation (introduces pathogens); routine catheter changes (unnecessary manipulation); breaking the closed system.

LPN role: Maintain the system, monitor for infection signs (cloudy/foul urine, fever, suprapubic pain), advocate for removal during rounds.

Source: NCLEX-PN Physiological — Reduction of Risk, CAUTI Prevention

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About this topic: Reduction of Risk Potential

Reduction of risk potential questions cover vital signs, lab values, diagnostic tests, and the complications to anticipate after procedures and surgery — recognising early signs and knowing what to report. This is one of 16 PN: Physiological Integrity questions on reduction of risk potential, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

New to this exam? Our NCLEX exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

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