Final answer:
The nurse should include frequent sexual intercourse, frequent catheterization, and the proximity of the urethra to the anus as risk factors for UTIs during the discussion. Good hygiene practices, such as wiping from front to back, can help reduce the risk of infection.
Step-by-step explanation:
Risk Factors for Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
When discussing the risk factors for UTIs with a client who has recurrent UTIs, a nurse should include several key points. One significant risk factor is frequent sexual intercourse, which can facilitate the transfer of bacteria into the urinary tract. Another factor is frequent catheterization, as this can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract and increase the risk of infection. Moreover, the anatomical location of the urethra in relation to the anus is particularly relevant in females due to the shorter distance between the two, allowing bacteria from the anus to easily reach the urethra. It is recommended to wipe from front to back to reduce fecal contamination of the urinary tract. Lowering testosterone levels is not typically associated with an increased risk of UTIs.
Other risk factors not specifically listed in the question but elucidated in the additional reference material include hormonal changes, particularly shifts in estrogen, and anatomical conditions such as an enlarged prostate or kidney stones that impair normal bladder emptying. Good hygiene, proper urination practices, and awareness of these risk factors can help in reducing the incidence of urinary tract infections.