This skill requires that you empty the drainage bag into a container with markings, then measure it on a barrier, on a flat surface AND at eye level to pass the exam. In addition, you cannot allow the emptying port to touch ANYTHING while you empty the bag to prevent bacteria from entering the bag (this is the ideal breeding environment for bacteria). The goal is to prevent a MASSIVE UTI in the patient that they may not be able to fight against because their immune system is currently busy fighting the illness or injury that brought them here in the first place! This is one of the most important skills you will do as a CNA – so learn to do it right! So, how do we know when to do this? By following the care plan!
See that little red button above the video? That is the care plan for the state exam. Click on it. Go ahead, I’ll wait. You are graded on reading and following the care plan – it counts big! This care plan tells us to measure and RECORD the contents of the drainage bag…this is the point a lot of students forget to do. Measuring is only half the job – the nurse needs that information to plan the patient’s care. Forgetting to document can fail you on the exam. Always read and follow the care plan!
This video shows this skill demonstrated according to the specific testing care plan used by Prometric for the exam.