Question

A gerontologic nurse is assessing a patient who has numerous comorbid health problems. What assessment findings should prompt the nurse to suspect a UTI? Select all that apply.

A) Food cravings
B) Upper abdominal pain
C) Insatiable thirst
D) Uncharacteristic fatigue
E) New onset of confusion"

Answer 1

In a patient with multiple health issues, uncharacteristic fatigue and new onset of confusion should raise suspicions of a urinary tract infection (UTI). Other symptoms include burning during urination, urgency, and cloudy urine. Early identification and treatment are crucial, especially in elderly patients.

Step-by-step explanation:

When assessing a patient with numerous comorbid health problems for a urinary tract infection (UTI), certain assessment findings would prompt a gerontologic nurse to be suspicious of a UTI. Among the options provided, the following should be considered indicative of a potential UTI:

• Uncharacteristic fatigue
• New onset of confusion

Other symptoms that commonly occur with UTIs include a burning feeling when urinating, urgent or frequent urination, pain in the back or side below the ribs, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, and fever or chills. UTIs are especially concerning in the elderly, as they can lead to a decline in mental function and, if untreated, can cause serious health problems. It's important to identify these symptoms early and obtain a urine culture to confirm the diagnosis and guide appropriate antibiotic treatment.