The patient with a urethral catheter who experiences an abrupt decrease in urine output must first be assessed for catheter patency. Checking the tubing for kinks and drainage is initially performed as it is the least invasive assessment technique. The nurse may also palpate the bladder to assess for fullness and perform the Credé maneuver to assist in drainage. However, this intervention must not be performed in the setting of a kinked or blocked urinary catheter as this has the potential to damage the urethra and bladder. If the tubing is not kinked and the bladder is not full, increased fluid intake may be the next intervention, depending on the patient. Replacement of the catheter is only indicated if the current catheter is not functioning. Frequent catheter insertion places the patient at risk for urinary tract infections and trauma.