Nurse Aide Practice Exam 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

When the tubing of an indwelling catheter is kinked, the immediate action should be to unkink the tubing and ensure proper drainage. This is crucial because kinking can lead to urinary retention, discomfort for the patient, and a risk of infection if urine cannot flow freely. By unkinking the tubing, you help restore normal urine flow, which is essential for maintaining the patient's health and comfort.

Ensuring proper drainage is a priority in catheter care, as blocked tubing can lead to complications. For instance, if urine backs up due to a kink, it may lead to bladder distension, increased risk of urinary tract infections, and may also signal a more serious issue, depending on the underlying condition of the patient.

It's important to first solve the immediate problem by correcting the kink, after which further assessments and actions, like notifying the physician or documenting the event, can be carried out as needed. However, addressing the kink in the tubing takes precedence to ensure patient safety and comfort.