A new nurse is attempting to catheterize a female patient. The nurse has a difficult time and after three attempts, finally inserts the catheter into the bladder and has urine output. What suggestion by the more experienced nurse is best?

Question

A.
"Leave the incorrectly placed catheters where they are while inserting a fresh one."
B.
"Place the patient in a high Fowler's position and have another nurse adduct the legs."
C.
"Position the patient prone with another nurse abducting the patient's legs."
D.
"To save the patient some charges, use the same catheter for two attempts."

Answer 1

ANS: A
Because the clitoris often resembles the urinary meatus, nurses sometimes try to insert a catheter in it instead of the real meatus. Leaving the incorrectly placed catheter while attempting another insertion shows the nurse where not to insert it. The patient should be in a low semi-Fowler's or supine position with the legs abducted (or frog-legged). To maintain infection control, never use a catheter for more than one catheterization attempt.