Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

What should the nurse encourage Mr. Haverford to do to regain urinary control after catheter removal?

1. Limit oral intake of fluids before bedtime.

2. Palpate his bladder to check for distention three times a day.

3. Perform pelvic floor exercises several times daily.

4. Avoid interrupting the urinary stream during voiding.

The correct answer is: Perform pelvic floor exercises several times daily.

Encouraging Mr. Haverford to perform pelvic floor exercises, often referred to as Kegel exercises, is an effective strategy to help regain urinary control after catheter removal. These exercises strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor, which support the bladder and can enhance bladder function. Stronger pelvic muscles can improve the ability to control urination, reduce the risk of incontinence, and aid in the recovery of normal urinary patterns after a period of catheterization. The other options, while they may have some relevance to urinary health, do not provide the same level of direct benefit in regaining urinary control. For example, limiting oral fluid intake before bedtime might reduce nighttime urges but can lead to dehydration and does not address the underlying muscle strength needed for bladder control. Palpating the bladder can provide information about urinary retention but is not a proactive measure to aid in regaining control. Avoiding interruptions during voiding may help in some cases, but this action alone doesn't strengthen the pelvic musculature necessary for improved control. Overall, focusing on pelvic floor exercises provides a targeted approach to rebuilding strength and function in the area directly related to urinary control.