If a patient who had bowel resection 10 hours ago has a urine output of only 240 cc over the past eight hours, what should the nurse do?

In a situation where a patient has undergone bowel resection and exhibits a low urine output of only 240 cc over an eight-hour period, it is critical to recognize the potential implications of diminished urine output following surgery. Low urine output can be indicative of several underlying issues, including dehydration, impaired renal function, or complications associated with surgery and anesthesia.

Notifying the primary health care provider is essential as it allows for a timely evaluation of the patient’s condition. The healthcare provider may need to conduct further assessments or investigations to determine the cause of the low urine output. Additionally, they can provide specific orders for interventions that may be necessary to address the patient's hydration status or any complications that may arise postoperatively.

While increasing fluid intake, monitoring vital signs, or encouraging the patient to void are all important aspects of postoperative care, these actions may not be sufficient or appropriate without further evaluation from the healthcare provider. The decision to notify the provider ensures that the patient receives the comprehensive care necessary to manage any potential postoperative complications effectively.