A nurse is caring for a client who underwent a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) for BPH. Which intervention should the nurse include in the postoperative care plan?
A.
Encourage the client to resume normal activities immediately.
B.
Monitor for signs of urinary tract infection (UTI).
C.
Instruct the client to avoid all fluid intake for 24 hours.
D.
Administer anticoagulant medications.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is B. Monitor for signs of urinary tract infection (UTI).
Explanation:
Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) Postoperative Care
A Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is a common surgical procedure for managing benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This procedure involves removing parts of the prostate gland to relieve urinary obstruction. Postoperative care is crucial for ensuring proper recovery and preventing complications.
1. Monitoring for Signs of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI):
Following TURP, monitoring for signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI) is critical. The procedure involves catheterization, which increases the risk of infection. The nurse should watch for symptoms such as fever, dysuria (painful urination), frequency, urgency, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine. UTIs can delay recovery and lead to more severe complications if not addressed promptly. Early detection and treatment of UTIs are essential for maintaining the client’s health and facilitating a smoother recovery process.
2. Encouraging Resumption of Normal Activities:
Option A: Encouraging immediate resumption of normal activities is not advisable. After TURP, patients need to gradually resume activities, adhering to the surgeon’s guidelines. Physical activity should be limited initially to avoid complications such as bleeding or strain on the surgical site.
3. Fluid Intake:
Option C: Instructing the client to avoid all fluid intake for 24 hours is incorrect. Adequate hydration is important to flush the urinary tract and help prevent clots in the bladder. However, fluid intake should be managed according to the client’s tolerance and the specific recommendations of the healthcare provider.
4. Anticoagulant Medications:
Option D: Administering anticoagulant medications is not a routine postoperative intervention for TURP unless specifically prescribed. In some cases, anticoagulants might be necessary for patients with certain conditions, but their use must be carefully monitored to prevent excessive bleeding.
In summary, monitoring for signs of UTI is a fundamental aspect of postoperative care for a client who has undergone TURP. This proactive measure helps prevent complications and ensures the patient’s recovery progresses smoothly.