NCLEX Practice Test

Which step should the nurse take first during the insertion process of an indwelling urinary catheter?

1. Advance catheter and inflate balloon

2. Apply sterile gloves and place drape down

3. Hand hygiene

4. Use non-dominant hand to grasp penis

The correct answer is: Advance catheter and inflate balloon

When inserting an indwelling urinary catheter, the nurse should first perform hand hygiene and then apply sterile gloves and place a drape down. However, the first step in the insertion process is to advance the catheter and inflate the balloon, as this ensures proper placement of the catheter and prevents any leakage of urine. B, C, and D are important steps, but they should be performed after the catheter is inserted. Advancing the catheter is the first and most crucial step in the insertion process.