What is the proper method for measuring a resident's urine output using a drainage bag?

• A. Keep bag above bladder level, read from eye level, and record in mL.
• B. Keep bag below bladder level, read urine at eye level, and record in mL.
• C. Read the urine level from the bag after removing from the holder and estimate mL.
• D. Ignore the bag and record based on intake.

Answer: (B)

Measuring urine output from a drainage bag relies on two key practices: keep the bag below the bladder level so urine drains by gravity and to prevent backflow, and read the urine level at eye level to avoid parallax error, then record the amount in milliliters. Reading at eye level ensures you see the true level of the urine in the bag, not a distorted angle, which keeps the measurement accurate. Keeping the bag below bladder level prevents backflow and contamination risks and ensures the reading reflects what’s actually leaving the patient. Do not read after removing the bag from its holder or estimate the amount, and base the measurement on the bag’s reading, not intake.