Question

While caring for a 77-year-old woman who has a urinary catheter, the nurse monitors the patient for the development of a UTI. What clinical manifestations is the patient most likely to experience?

a. Cloudy urine and fever
b. Urethral burning and bloody urine
c. Vague abdominal discomfort and disorientation
d. Suprapubic pain and slight decline in body temperature

Answer 1

A 77-year-old woman with a urinary catheter may show signs of a UTI such as cloudy urine, fever, a burning sensation during urination, frequent urination, and possibly vague abdominal discomfort and disorientation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The clinical manifestations a 77-year-old woman with a urinary catheter is most likely to experience if she were to develop a urinary tract infection (UTI) can include cloudy urine and fever, a burning feeling when urinating, frequent or intense urges to urinate, pain in the back or side below the ribs, and urine that may appear dark, bloody, or have a foul smell. Considering her age and the presence of a urinary catheter, which increases the risk of infection, the nurse should be vigilant for these symptoms. Infections of the urinary tract can cause inflammation of the bladder (cystitis) or of the urethra (urethritis), and symptoms in older adults may also include vague abdominal discomfort and disorientation, particularly if their immune system is weakened or they have underlying neurological conditions.