Final answer:
Nitrites in a urinalysis indicate the potential presence of a urinary tract infection caused by Gram-negative bacteria, suggesting the need for further diagnostic evaluation such as a urine culture.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nitrites in a urinalysis (UA) can tell us about the presence of a urinary tract infection (UTI). Normally, urine contains nitrates, which are harmless. However, Gram-negative bacteria, which are often the cause of UTIs, convert these nitrates into nitrites. The presence of nitrites in urine is, therefore, an indirect indicator of a bacterial infection.
Using urine test strips, medical professionals can detect nitrites, which can signal the need for further testing, such as a urine culture, to confirm the infection and determine the most appropriate treatment. It's important to note that while nitrites suggest an infection, not all infections produce nitrites, and further diagnostic evaluation is needed for a definitive diagnosis.