Question

a client has a continuous iv infusion of dopamine and an iv of normal saline at 50 ml/hour. the nurse notes that the clients urinary output has been 20 ml/hour for the last 2 hours. which intervention should the nurse initiate?

a replace the urinary catheter.

b notify the healthcare provider of the urinary output.

c stop the infusion of dopamine.

d change the normal saline to a keep open rate.

Explanation:

Dopamine is used to increase blood pressure and can affect renal perfusion. A urinary output of 20 mL/hour for 2 hours is low (normal is around 30 mL/hour or more), indicating possible decreased renal perfusion. The nurse should notify the healthcare provider to assess and adjust treatment (like dopamine dosage or fluid management). Option A: Replacing the catheter isn't indicated as low output is likely due to perfusion, not catheter issue. Option C: Stopping dopamine abruptly is unsafe without provider order. Option D: Changing normal saline rate without order is inappropriate. So the correct action is to notify the provider.

Answer:

B. Notify the healthcare provider of the urinary output.