Final answer:
d. Orange juice
The recommended beverage for keeping urine acidic to prevent urinary tract infections is orange juice because citrus fruits help lower urine pH. Adequate hydration and a balanced diet also contribute to urinary tract health.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse would best recommend orange juice to a 17-year-old female to keep urine acidic and help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). This recommendation is based on the fact that diet can influence urine pH, with citrus fruits such as oranges lowering pH, which helps keep the urine acidic. Acidic urine environments are less favorable for the growth of pathogens. Although some believe that drinking lots of cranberry juice will prevent or cure UTIs, it's crucial to maintain a balanced diet and adequate hydration for overall urinary tract health. Additionally, urine's naturally acidic properties contribute to its role in non-specific defense against infections, alongside the flushing action that keeps the ureters and bladder free of microbes.