Final answer:
Immobility can put a patient at risk for a urinary tract infection due to urine pooling in the bladder when the patient is in a supine position, weakened immune system, and conditions affecting urine retention. Other risk factors include the anatomical predisposition in women and potential recent exposure to pathogenic bacteria during hospital stays or surgeries.
Step-by-step explanation:
A patient who is immobile should be considered at risk for a urinary tract infection (UTI) primarily because urine pooling may occur. When patients remain in a supine position, gravity does not assist in the complete drainage of the bladder, which can lead to residual urine that can become a medium for bacterial growth. In addition to that, factors such as a weakened immune system, especially in elderly patients, and any pre-existing conditions that affect bladder emptying or cause urine retention, such as enlarged prostate or neurological conditions, contribute to a heightened risk of UTIs.
In particular, elderly patients may not have strong urges to urinate due to neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s or may not drink enough fluids, leading to dehydration and infrequent urination. These scenarios encourage bacterial colonization and infection. For women, the risk is higher because the female urethra is shorter and closer to the anus, permitting easier bacterial access to the bladder. It's also important to consider that some patients, especially the elderly, might use catheters, which can increase the risk of infection if not managed properly. Lastly, a recent hospital stay or surgery, as was the case with Roberta's gallstone procedure, can lead to a nosocomial UTI because of potential exposure to pathogenic bacteria.