Florida Nursing Assistant Competency Pracrice Exam

When measuring urinal output for a client with a catheter, what should the nurse aide use?

1. A graduated pitcher or bedpan

2. Only the catheter bag

3. A handheld scale

4. Nothing, as it is not necessary

The correct answer is: A graduated pitcher or bedpan

Using a graduated pitcher or bedpan is the appropriate method for measuring urinary output from a client with a catheter. This is because a graduated pitcher provides clear measurements and allows for accurate quantification of the volume of urine produced. It is essential to track urinary output in clients with catheters for various medical reasons, including monitoring kidney function, fluid balance, and detecting any potential complications. This method ensures that the measurement is taken accurately and can be easily recorded in the client’s medical charts, contributing to comprehensive care. A graduated pitcher is specifically designed for this purpose, typically featuring measurement markings that facilitate precise readings. Other options do not provide an effective or accurate means of measuring output. For example, relying solely on the catheter bag may lead to inaccuracies since the bag may not provide exact volumes. A handheld scale is not ideal for measuring liquid volumes directly, and suggesting that no measurement is necessary fails to recognize the importance of monitoring urinary output in patient care.