Final answer:
The top diagnoses for a patient with a catheter are typically urinary tract infection and urinary retention, with the UTI being the primary concern. UTIs can develop due to the introduction of bacteria like E. coli into the urinary tract and can lead to bladder infections or more serious kidney infections if left untreated.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common diagnoses for a client with a catheter would likely be urinary retention and urinary tract infection (UTI). The top diagnosis would typically be a UTI. Catheterization can increase the risk of a bladder infection or cystitis, typically caused by bacteria like Escherichia coli. These infections are more common in females due to anatomical differences and can be exacerbated by factors like sexual intercourse, diabetes, or other underlying health conditions.
Urinary incontinence can also be a concern in individuals with catheters, particularly in those of advanced age or in males with prostate issues. Additionally, UTIs are a serious risk associated with catheterization, and, if untreated, can lead to more severe infections such as pyelonephritis, an infection of the kidneys.
Detection of UTIs can be conducted through a urinalysis which tests for nitrites or leukocyte esterase, indicating the presence of bacteria and an active infection. In summary, while both urinary retention and incontinence can occur in catheterized patients, the highest risk and most common diagnosis is typically a UTI.