12 Questions
Which muscle relaxes to cause the retention of urine in the bladder?
Detrusor muscle
What is the function of the internal sphincter in the process of urination?
Constricts to retain urine
In males, the urethra serves as a common outlet for which systems?
Reproductive and Urinary
Why are women more susceptible to UTIs compared to men?
Shorter urethra length
At what point during bladder filling do adults typically feel a desire to void?
150-250ml
What is a voluntary action that can delay the process of urination?
Contraction of abdominal wall muscles
What is the primary function of the kidneys in the urinary system?
Regulate blood volume
Which part of the urinary system sends a signal to the spinal cord when it becomes full?
Urinary bladder
What is the main purpose of the ureters in the urinary system?
Transport urine from the renal pelvis to the bladder
Which body system is responsible for maintaining a balance of blood pH and electrolytes?
Urinary system
What is the function of the urinary bladder in the urinary system?
Store urine temporarily and empty periodically
Which organ excretes body wastes through urine in the urinary system?
Kidneys
Study Notes
Urinary Elimination
- Normal bladder capacity: 600-1000ml
- The detrusor muscle relaxes, and the internal sphincter constricts to retain urine in the bladder
- The urinary meatus is the exit point for urination
Urinary Tract Anatomy
- Urethra: transports urine from the urinary bladder to the exterior of the body
- 2 sphincters: internal sphincter and external sphincter
- Relaxing the external sphincter starts the flow of urine for excretion
Male and Female Urinary Tract Differences
- Male urethra: about 20 cm long, common outlet for reproductive system and urinary elimination
- Female urethra: 4-6.5 cm long, women more susceptible to UTI due to short urethra
Urination (Micturition/Voiding) Process
- Pressure arises when urine accumulates in the bladder
- Desire to void felt when bladder fills to about 150-250ml in adults, 50-200ml in children
- Urination initiated when detrusor muscle contracts, internal and external sphincter relax, and abdominal wall muscles slightly contract
- Micturition can be delayed by voluntary contraction of the external sphincter
Characteristics of Urine
- Normal amount: 1-1.8 L/day
- Abnormal: Anuria (no urine production)
Functions of the Urinary System
- Remove waste products from the blood
- Eliminate waste products from the body
- Regulate blood volume
- Maintain balance of blood pH and electrolytes
Kidney Functions
- Maintain composition and volume of body fluids
- Excrete body wastes through urine
Ureters
- Transport urine from renal pelvis to urinary bladder
Urinary Bladder
- Reserve urine temporarily and empty periodically when full
- Sends signal to spinal cord when full to signal need for emptying
Test your knowledge on urinary elimination in the Fundamental Nursing Practice class. Topics include basic anatomy, factors influencing urinary elimination, diagnostic methods, and more.
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