Question

A client with pyelonephritis is being discharged from the hospital, and the nurse provides instructions to the client to prevent recurrence. The nurse determines that the cleint understands the information that was given if hte client states an intention to:

a) increase fluids for 2 days if signs and symptoms of a urinary tract infection develop
b) take the prescribed antibiotics until all symptoms subside
c) return to the physician's office for scheduled follow-up urine cultures
d) decrease fluid intake if frequent urination occurs

Answer 1

The correct understanding of instructions to prevent the recurrence of pyelonephritis is the client's intention to return for scheduled follow-up urine cultures to ensure that the infection has been fully eradicated.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse can determine that the client understands instructions to prevent the recurrence of pyelonephritis if the client states an intention to return to the physician's office for scheduled follow-up urine cultures. Scheduled follow-up urine cultures are essential to ensure that the infection has been fully eradicated and to monitor for possible recurrence.

It is also critical to stress the importance of completing the prescribed course of antibiotics, not merely until symptoms subside but for the entire duration prescribed, and to increase fluid intake to help flush out the urinary tract. Decreasing fluid intake, especially when experiencing frequent urination, might lead to dehydration and a more concentrated urine, which can exacerbate the condition and hinder recovery.