Florida Nursing Assistant Competency Pracrice Exam

How should an indwelling catheter drainage bag be positioned?

1. At stomach level

2. Below the level of the bladder

3. At bed level

4. Above the level of the bladder

The correct answer is: Below the level of the bladder

The drainage bag of an indwelling catheter should indeed be positioned below the level of the bladder. This is crucial to facilitate proper drainage of urine and to prevent backflow into the bladder. When the bag is kept below bladder level, gravity aids in the flow of urine out of the bladder and into the collection bag, minimizing the risk of urinary tract infections and ensuring that the bladder can empty effectively. Positioning the drainage bag above the level of the bladder could lead to urine backing up into the bladder, increasing the risk of infection and complications. Placing it at stomach level or bed level does not provide the necessary gravitational assistance required for effective drainage. Therefore, maintaining the drainage bag below bladder level is an essential practice in catheter care.