To prevent infection in a client with an indwelling urinary catheter, which action should the nurse perform?

• A. Check the catheter tubing for kinks or twisting
• B. Encourage the client to drink more fluids
• C. Change the catheter daily
• D. Assess the client's urine color regularly

Answer: (A)

Ensuring that the catheter tubing is free from kinks or twisting is essential in preventing infection in a client with an indwelling urinary catheter. When the tubing is kinked or twisted, it can obstruct the flow of urine, leading to urine retention in the bladder. This stagnant urine can promote bacterial growth, increasing the risk of developing a urinary tract infection (UTI). Regularly checking the catheter's path helps maintain proper drainage and reduces the likelihood of complications associated with catheter use.

The other actions, while beneficial in certain contexts, are not as directly related to immediate infection prevention. Encouraging increased fluid intake can help dilute urine and reduce the risk of infection over time, but it does not address the immediate structural integrity of the catheter system. Changing the catheter daily is typically unnecessary and can actually increase the risk of infection due to introducing bacteria during the procedure. Regularly assessing the urine color can provide information on the client's hydration status or possible infection but does not actively prevent infection. Therefore, checking the catheter tubing for kinks or twisting is the most focused and effective action to prevent infection in this scenario.