Final answer:
Symptoms that indicate a high risk for injury due to possible urinary tract infection include a burning sensation during urination, frequent urination with little output, pain below the ribs, changes in urine appearance and smell, and systemic signs such as fever or chills.
Step-by-step explanation:
When formulating a nursing diagnosis of "high risk for injury due to possible urinary tract infection (UTI)," a nurse will evaluate certain symptoms that are indicative of a UTI. These symptoms are crucial in determining the increased risk of injury, particularly in a clinical setting where an individual's movements or actions can be compromised due to discomfort or urgency stemming from infection.
Some common symptoms that support the nursing diagnosis include:
- A burning feeling when urinating, signaling potential inflammation of the urethra or bladder.
- Frequent or intense urges to urinate, even with a minimal amount of urine, pointing to bladder irritation or infection.
- Pain in the back or side below the ribs, which might indicate the infection has spread to the kidneys, known as pyelonephritis.
- Cloudy, dark, bloody, or foul-smelling urine, suggesting the presence of bacteria, white cells, or blood in the urine related to a UTI.
- Fever or chills, which may accompany a UTI and suggest a systemic response to infection.
These symptoms not only signal the presence of a UTI but also pose an increased risk for injury if the affected individual experiences confusion, urgency with increased trips to the bathroom, or discomfort that could lead to falls or other accidents. Hence, these symptoms substantiate the nursing diagnosis and underscore the importance of prompt assessment and treatment of UTIs to prevent further complications and risks.