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A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following abdominal surgery. Which assessment finding should the nurse report to the provider?
A. Temperature 37.0°C (98.6°F)
B. Heart rate 88/min
C. Urine output 20 mL/hr
D. Bowel sounds present in all quadrants
Correct Answer
✅ C. Urine output 20 mL/hr
Detailed Rationale
After surgery, the nurse closely monitors kidney perfusion and fluid status. A normal urine output for an adult is generally:
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A urine output of 20 mL/hr is below the expected minimum and may indicate:
Hypovolemia (low circulating blood volume)
Dehydration
Shock
Decreased cardiac output
Impaired kidney perfusion
Because inadequate urine output can be an early sign of serious complications, the nurse should notify the healthcare provider promptly.
Why the Other Options Are Incorrect
A. Temperature 37.0°C (98.6°F)
Normal body temperature.
No indication of infection or complication.
B. Heart rate 88/min
Falls within the normal adult range (60–100 bpm).
Expected in a stable postoperative client.
D. Bowel sounds present in all quadrants
Indicates return of gastrointestinal function.
This is a positive postoperative finding.
NCLEX Tip
When prioritizing postoperative assessments, remember:
Urine output < 30 mL/hr = report immediately.
This finding may indicate impaired organ perfusion and requires further assessment and intervention.
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