You obtain the following assessment data about your client who has had a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) and has continuous bladder irrigation. Which finding indicates the most immediate need for nursing intervention?

• A. The client states that he feels a continuous urge to void
• B. The catheter drainage is light pink with occasional clots
• C. The catheter is taped to the client's thigh
• D. The client reports painful bladder spasms

Answer: (D)

When caring for a client after TURP with continuous bladder irrigation, the most urgent issue is bladder irritation that could block the catheter and worsen the situation. Painful bladder spasms indicate the bladder is irritated and may signal the catheter is being obstructed by clots or tissue, or that irrigation isn’t adequately relieving irritation. This can quickly lead to inadequate drainage, increased bleeding, or further discomfort, so it demands prompt assessment and action: check catheter patency and irrigation flow, and administer prescribed antispasmodics and analgesics to relieve the spasms and pain.

The other findings are less immediately threatening. A continuous urge to void is often felt even with a catheter in place and isn’t an urgent problem if drainage is ongoing. Light pink drainage with occasional clots can be expected early after TURP as healing occurs, provided irrigation remains unobstructed. Taping the catheter to the thigh is a standard safety measure and does not indicate a current problem requiring urgent intervention.