When caring for a client with a catheter, which observation should the nursing assistant report to the nurse immediately?

When a client has a catheter, the nursing assistant plays a crucial role in monitoring their overall condition, including mental status. A change in mental status can indicate a variety of serious issues, such as infection, dehydration, or even complications related to catheter use. It may also suggest a systemic problem like a urinary tract infection (UTI) or an adverse reaction to medications.

Immediate reporting of such changes is essential because they may require prompt medical intervention. Mental status alterations can lead to more severe complications if not addressed quickly, making it a critical observation that should be communicated to the nurse without delay.

In contrast, while color change, discomfort, and urine output are important factors to monitor and report, they may not necessitate immediate action as directly as a change in mental status. Each of those symptoms can indicate problems, but they typically allow for some time before intervention is necessary, depending on the specific situation and context of care.