What is the correct technique for emptying and measuring a urinary drainage bag?

• A. Hold bag above bladder level and pour into a funnel; rinse; return to bag.
• B. Remove bag and weigh the bag with contents to estimate volume.
• C. Keep bag below bladder level, place drainage port into calibrated container, close port, dispose of contents, and document.
• D. Empty bag into toilet, then reopen port to drain remaining air.

Answer: (C)

The main idea is to prevent backflow while getting an accurate measure of urine. Keeping the drainage bag below the bladder level stops urine from traveling back toward the kidneys and helps reduce infection risk. Using a calibrated measuring container gives a precise volume reading. To perform it, place a clean graduated container on a level surface, keep the bag lower than the bladder, drain the urine into the container, then close the drainage port, document the amount, and dispose of the urine as required. This method avoids backflow, provides an accurate measurement, and minimizes contamination. Pouring into a funnel or rinsing, weighing the bag, or draining air after emptying do not provide the same safety and accuracy.