Care Manager Certification Practice Exam

Which of the following is a valid indication for urinary catheterization?

1. Convenience of the nursing staff

2. Relief of urinary retention

3. Routine acquisition of a urine specimen

4. Improved patient comfort

The correct answer is: Relief of urinary retention

The valid indication for urinary catheterization in this context is the relief of urinary retention. Catheterization is often necessary when a patient is unable to void urine naturally due to various medical conditions, which can lead to discomfort, bladder distention, and potential complications such as urinary tract infections or kidney damage. In cases of acute urinary retention, a catheter allows for the immediate drainage of urine, alleviating the physical symptoms experienced by the patient. Other options, while they may reflect situations that some may think warrant catheterization, do not align with established clinical guidelines. For instance, convenience of the nursing staff does not justify catheter use, as this goes against the principles of patient-centered care. Routine acquisition of a urine specimen typically does not require catheterization and can usually be obtained through non-invasive means, such as clean-catch urine collection. Lastly, while improved patient comfort can be a consideration, it cannot be the primary reason for catheterization without a clear medical need, such as urinary retention.