What should a nurse do if a patient is unable to void after anesthesia?

Monitoring for bladder distention and potentially catheterizing if necessary is the appropriate action when a patient is unable to void after anesthesia. After undergoing anesthesia, patients may experience urinary retention due to various factors, including the effects of anesthetic agents on bladder function, pain, and the influence of postoperative medications.

By monitoring for bladder distention, the nurse can assess the patient’s condition accurately. If the bladder becomes overly distended, there is a risk of complications, such as bladder damage or infection. If the patient continues to be unable to void and bladder distention is evident, catheterization may be necessary to relieve this distention and prevent further complications.

In contrast, administering medication to stimulate urination may not be the first line of intervention, as it requires careful consideration of the patient's overall condition and potential contraindications. Encouraging increased fluid intake without a prior assessment may not be appropriate, especially if the patient is experiencing significant urinary retention. Waiting 24 hours before taking any action could lead to unnecessary complications and discomfort for the patient, making timely evaluation and intervention crucial.