Question

A woman arrives at the women's health clinic complaining of frequency and burning pain when urinating. The diagnosis is a urinary tract infection. What is important for the nurse to encourage the client to do?

A. Void every two hours
B. Record fluid intake and urinary output
C. Pour warm water over the vulva after voiding
D. Wash the hands thoroughly after urinating and defecating

Answer 1

The most important recommendation for a patient with symptoms of a UTI is to maintain good hygiene by washing hands thoroughly after urinating and defecating. This helps prevent the spread of bacteria responsible for the infection.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient presents symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI) such as frequency and burning pain during urination, there are several important recommendations a nurse can provide. Among the options listed:

• Void every two hours
• Record fluid intake and urinary output
• Pour warm water over the vulva after voiding
• Wash hands thoroughly after urinating and defecating

While all these measures can be helpful, the most important thing to encourage is to maintain good hygiene. This includes washing hands thoroughly after urinating and defecating to prevent the spread of bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, which is often responsible for UTIs. Maintaining good hygiene is crucial for preventing a UTI from either occurring or worsening.