In the immediate postoperative plan of care after kidney transplantation, which intervention is essential?

• A. Administer diuretics to increase urine output.
• B. Check blood pressure every 6 hours.
• C. Monitor the client's urinary output hourly using an urimeter.
• D. Limit fluids to decrease urine output.

Answer: (C)

Monitoring urine output after kidney transplantation is essential because it directly reflects the new kidney’s perfusion and functional status. Using an urimeter to measure hourly urine output provides precise, continuous data, allowing rapid identification of problems such as poor graft perfusion, obstruction, or delayed graft function. Early detection means you can intervene quickly to support the graft, adjust fluids, or address hemodynamic issues before damage occurs. Administering diuretics to force more urine output isn’t routinely indicated right after surgery and can cause volume shifts or electrolyte imbalances that mask or worsen underlying problems. While blood pressure is important to monitor, waiting six hours between checks could miss urgent changes affecting the graft. Limiting fluids is not appropriate early on; ensuring adequate hydration supports graft perfusion.