NURS1067 Week 11: Management of Common Urinary Elimination Issues PDF
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This document provides an overview of common urinary elimination issues, including Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), urinary incontinence (UI), and urinary retention (UR). It outlines key signs and symptoms for each condition and discusses the role of nursing interventions in managing these issues. This past paper is designed for undergraduate nursing students.
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**WEEKLY OBJECTIVE** 1. **Key Signs and Symptoms of UTIs, UI, and UR** +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Urinary Tract Infections | | | (UTIs)** | | +===...
**WEEKLY OBJECTIVE** 1. **Key Signs and Symptoms of UTIs, UI, and UR** +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Urinary Tract Infections | | | (UTIs)** | | +===================================+===================================+ | **Category** | **Key Signs and Symptoms** | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Lower UTI (Bladder, Urethra)** | \- Dysuria (painful urination) | | | | | | \- Urgency and frequency of | | | urination (often small amounts) | | | | | | \- Suprapubic discomfort or | | | pressure | | | | | | \- Cloudy, foul-smelling urine | | | | | | \- Hematuria (blood in the urine) | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Upper UTI (Kidneys: | \- Flank pain or tenderness (at | | Pyelonephritis)** | the sides of the back, near the | | | kidneys) | | | | | | \- Fever and chills | | | | | | \- Nausea and vomiting | | | | | | \- General malaise or fatigue | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **General Symptoms (Common to | \- Burning sensation during | | Both)** | urination (common in both types) | | | | | | \- Fatigue and altered mental | | | status in older adults | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Urinary Incontinence (UI)** | | +===================================+===================================+ | **Type** | **Key Signs and Symptoms** | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Stress Incontinence** | \- Leakage of urine during | | | physical activities that increase | | | abdominal pressure (e.g., | | | coughing, sneezing, laughing, | | | lifting). | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Urge Incontinence** | \- Sudden, intense urge to | | | urinate followed by involuntary | | | leakage. | | | | | | \- Frequent urination, including | | | waking up at night (nocturia). | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Mixed Incontinence** | \- Combination of stress and urge | | | symptoms: leakage with physical | | | activities and sudden urgency to | | | urinate. | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Overflow Incontinence** | \- Frequent dribbling of urine. | | | | | | \- Weak urine stream, difficulty | | | starting urination, or feeling of | | | incomplete bladder emptying. | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Functional Incontinence** | \- Inability to reach the toilet | | | in time due to physical or | | | cognitive impairments, despite | | | normal bladder control. | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Transient Incontinence** | \- Temporary incontinence caused | | | by reversible factors (e.g., | | | UTIs, medications, acute | | | illnesses). | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Condition** | **Key Signs and Symptoms** | +===================================+===================================+ | **Urinary Tract Infections | Dysuria (painful or difficult | | (UTIs)** | urination), urgency, frequency, | | | suprapubic discomfort, cloudy or | | | foul-smelling urine, hematuria | | | (blood in the urine). | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Urinary Incontinence (UI)** | -Clinical manifestations (signs | | | and symptoms) depend on the type | | | of urinary incontinence (see | | | *Types of Incontinence* table*)* | | | | | | -Types of incontinence: Stress, | | | Urge, Mixed, Functional, | | | Overflow, Transient | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Urinary Retention (UR)** | Suprapubic pressure, | | | restlessness, overflow | | | incontinence, frequent small | | | voids, bladder distention. | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ ![](media/image2.png) +-----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+ | **Urinary Retention | | | | (UR)** | | | +=======================+=======================+=======================+ | **Category** | **Key Signs and | **Notes** | | | Symptoms** | | +-----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+ | **Acute Urinary | \- Sudden and | **Acute UR is a | | Retention** | complete inability to | medical emergency** | | | urinate. | requiring **immediate | | | | intervention** (e.g., | | | \- Severe lower | catheterization). | | | abdominal pain and | | | | discomfort. | | | | | | | | \- Bladder distention | | | | (palpable or | | | | visible). | | | | | | | | \- Restlessness and | | | | agitation. | | +-----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+ | **Chronic Urinary | \- Frequent urination | **Chronic UR** may | | Retention** | in small amounts. | lead to complications | | | | like bladder | | | \- Weak or | infections or kidney | | | interrupted urine | damage if untreated. | | | stream. | | | | | | | | \- Feeling of | | | | incomplete bladder | | | | emptying. | | | | | | | | \- Overflow | | | | incontinence | | | | (dribbling of urine). | | +-----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+ | **General Symptoms | \- Suprapubic | | | (Common to Both)** | pressure or | | | | tenderness. | | | | | | | | \- Postvoid residual | | | | volume \>100 mL | | | | (measured via bladder | | | | scan). | | | | | | | | \- Diaphoresis | | | | (sweating) due to | | | | discomfort. | | +-----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+ ![](media/image4.png)**2. Basic Nursing Assessments for UTIs, UI, and UR** +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)** | | +===================================+===================================+ | **Assessment Area** | **Key Considerations** | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Health History** | \- Previous history of UTIs or | | | other urinary disorders. | | | | | | \- Any underlying conditions | | | (e.g., diabetes, immune | | | deficiencies) that increase | | | susceptibility. | | | | | | \- Current medications (e.g., | | | antibiotics, immunosuppressants, | | | diuretics). | | | | | | \- Recent sexual activity, use of | | | birth control (e.g., diaphragm, | | | spermicides), or catheter use. | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Vital Signs** | \- **Monitor for signs of | | | infection**: fever, elevated | | | heart rate, low blood pressure. | | | | | | \- Assess for systemic signs of | | | infection like chills or | | | hypotension. | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Urine Characteristics** | **- Color:** Cloudy, | | | foul-smelling urine may indicate | | | infection. | | | | | | **- Odor:** Strong, unpleasant | | | odor could be a sign of UTI. | | | | | | **- Presence of blood | | | (Hematuria):**) can be a sign of | | | UTI. | | | | | | **- Frequency and urgency:** | | | Monitor for increased frequency, | | | urgency, and painful urination | | | (dysuria). | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Physical Assessment** | **-** Palpate the suprapubic area | | | for tenderness or discomfort. | | | | | | \- Assess for flank pain | | | (indicating a possible upper UTI | | | or pyelonephritis). | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Laboratory Tests** | **- Urinalysis:** Look for signs | | | of infection such as leukocytes | | | (WBCs), nitrites, and bacteria. | | | | | | **- Urine Culture and | | | Sensitivity:** To identify the | | | causative organism and select | | | appropriate antibiotics | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Hydration Status** | **-** Assess for signs of | | | dehydration (e.g., dry mouth, | | | reduced urine output). | | | | | | **-** Encourage fluid intake to | | | help flush bacteria from the | | | urinary tract. | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ ![](media/image6.png) +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Urinary Incontinence (UI)** | | +===================================+===================================+ | **Assessment Area** | **Key Considerations** | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Health History** | \- Determine onset, duration, and | | | frequency of incontinence | | | episodes. | | | | | | \- Assess for underlying | | | conditions (e.g., pregnancy, | | | menopause, prostate issues, | | | neurological disorders). | | | | | | \- Review history of surgeries or | | | trauma to the pelvic region. | | | | | | \- Identify use of medications | | | (e.g., diuretics, | | | anticholinergics) that may | | | influence bladder control. | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Urinary Patterns** | \- Maintain a **bladder log** to | | | track voiding times, fluid | | | intake, and leakage episodes. | | | | | | \- Assess for urgency, frequency, | | | and volume of urine. | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Functional Assessment** | \- Evaluate mobility and | | | cognitive function that may | | | affect the ability to reach the | | | toilet on time. | | | | | | \- Assess environment for | | | barriers to toileting (e.g., | | | inaccessible bathroom, clothing). | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Perineal Skin Integrity** | \- Inspect for signs of | | | irritation, redness, or breakdown | | | due to prolonged contact with | | | urine. | | | | | | \- Assess hygiene practices to | | | prevent infection and maintain | | | skin health. | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Physical Examination** | \- Palpate the bladder for | | | distention or tenderness. | | | | | | \- Perform a pelvic exam if | | | indicated (stress incontinence). | | | | | | \- Assess for prolapse in women | | | or an enlarged prostate in men. | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Diagnostic Testing** | \- **Postvoid residual (PVR) | | | volume measurement** using a | | | **bladder scanner**. | | | | | | \- Urinalysis to rule out | | | infections or other underlying | | | conditions. | | | | | | \- Urodynamic studies to evaluate | | | bladder function if indicated. | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Urinary Retention (UR)** | | +===================================+===================================+ | **Assessment Area** | **Key Considerations** | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Health History** | \- Ask about the onset, duration, | | | and frequency of difficulty | | | urinating. | | | | | | \- Review any history of | | | neurological disorders, | | | surgeries, or conditions like BPH | | | or bladder obstruction. | | | | | | \- Assess for use of medications | | | that may cause retention (e.g., | | | anticholinergics, opioids). | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Urinary Patterns** | \- Assess for signs of incomplete | | | bladder emptying (e.g., small | | | voids, frequent urination). | | | | | | \- Note episodes of dribbling or | | | overflow incontinence. | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Physical Examination** | \- Palpate the bladder for | | | distention, tenderness, or | | | firmness above the pubic | | | symphysis. | | | | | | \- Observe for signs of | | | discomfort or restlessness. | | | | | | \- Check for suprapubic pain or | | | pressure. | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Bladder Function** | \- Measure postvoid residual | | | (PVR) volume using a bladder | | | scanner to evaluate incomplete | | | bladder emptying. | | | | | | \- Observe for a weak or | | | intermittent urine stream during | | | voiding. | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Hydration and Output** | \- Monitor fluid intake and urine | | | output to identify changes in | | | patterns or imbalances. | | | | | | \- Assess for signs of oliguria | | | (low urine output). | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Perineal Skin Integrity** | \- Inspect for skin breakdown or | | | irritation due to overflow | | | incontinence or dribbling. | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ | **Diagnostic Testing** | \- Conduct urinalysis to rule out | | | infections or hematuria. | | | | | | \- Imaging studies (e.g., | | | ultrasound, CT scan) to identify | | | possible obstructions. | | | | | | \- Perform urodynamic studies if | | | retention is chronic or related | | | to functional issues. | +-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+ **3. Significant Potential Complications and Appropriate Nursing Interventions for UTIs, UI, and UR** ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ **Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)** ----------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Complication** **Description** **Nursing Interventions** **Pyelonephritis** Infection spreads to the kidneys, causing flank pain, fever, chills, nausea, and vomiting. \- Monitor for signs of systemic infection (e.g., fever, elevated WBC count).\ - Administer prescribed antibiotics promptly to prevent further kidney damage.\ - Encourage fluid intake to flush bacteria and reduce irritation. **Sepsis** Severe infection enters the bloodstream, leading to systemic inflammatory response and organ failure. \- Monitor vital signs closely for hypotension, tachycardia, and fever.\ - Administer IV antibiotics and fluids as prescribed.\ - Ensure early recognition of systemic symptoms for timely intervention. **Recurrent UTIs** Repeated infections due to incomplete treatment or persistent risk factors. \- Educate the patient on completing antibiotics and proper hygiene practices.\ - Identify and address underlying risk factors (e.g., incomplete bladder emptying, catheter use). **Bladder Damage** Chronic or untreated UTIs can weaken the bladder wall, reducing its function. \- Monitor voiding patterns and perform postvoid residual measurements to assess bladder function.\ - Encourage scheduled voiding to prevent overdistention. **Kidney Damage** Long-term infections can lead to scarring or reduced kidney function, especially in children. \- Monitor renal function tests (e.g., creatinine, BUN) for early detection of damage.\ - Encourage follow-ups with a nephrologist if chronic kidney involvement is suspected. **Urosepsis** Infection originating in the urinary tract spreads systemically, causing life-threatening conditions. \- Recognize early symptoms of urosepsis, such as altered mental status, low blood pressure, and tachycardia.\ - Administer IV fluids and vasopressors if needed to maintain blood pressure. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Urinary Incontinence (UI)** ------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Complication** **Description** **Nursing Interventions** **Skin Breakdown** Prolonged contact with urine can cause irritation, maceration, and increased risk of pressure injuries. \- Maintain skin integrity with regular cleansing and use of barrier creams.\ - Ensure frequent changing of incontinence pads or briefs.\ - Monitor skin for signs of redness, irritation, or breakdown. **Infection (UTI)** Increased risk of urinary tract infections due to retained urine or contamination from leakage. \- Promote proper perineal hygiene (front to back cleaning).\ - Encourage hydration to dilute urine and flush bacteria.\ - Monitor for signs of UTI (e.g., dysuria, foul-smelling urine). **Social Isolation** Embarrassment and fear of accidents can lead to withdrawal from social interactions and activities. \- Provide emotional support and education to reduce stigma.\ - Encourage participation in bladder training and pelvic floor exercises.\ - Explore appropriate absorbent products to enhance confidence. **Falls and Injuries** Urgency and rushing to the bathroom can increase the risk of falls, particularly in older adults. \- Ensure a safe environment by removing trip hazards and providing access to an easily accessible bathroom.\ - Encourage scheduled voiding to prevent urgency episodes.\ - Use assistive devices if necessary (e.g., bedside commodes). **Depression/Anxiety** Emotional distress related to loss of bladder control and perceived loss of independence. \- Encourage open communication about incontinence concerns.\ - Refer to counseling or support groups if needed.\ - Develop a personalized care plan to address emotional and physical needs. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Urinary Retention (UR)** ------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Complication** **Description** **Nursing Interventions** **Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)** Incomplete bladder emptying creates a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. \- Monitor for signs of infection (e.g., dysuria, fever, cloudy urine).\ - Encourage hydration to promote frequent voiding.\ - Perform postvoid residual assessments and initiate catheterization if indicated. **Hydronephrosis** Backflow of urine into the kidneys due to prolonged retention can cause swelling and kidney damage. \- Monitor for flank pain and changes in renal function (e.g., creatinine levels).\ - Ensure timely bladder emptying using techniques such as double voiding or catheterization.\ - Notify the physician promptly for significant bladder distention or suspected kidney involvement. **Bladder Damage** Chronic overdistension of the bladder may weaken or damage the detrusor muscle, reducing bladder contractility. \- Schedule toileting to prevent overdistension.\ - Educate the patient on double voiding techniques to ensure complete emptying.\ - Use intermittent catheterization to relieve retention and prevent further damage. **Overflow Incontinence** Continuous dribbling of urine due to a full bladder exceeding its capacity, causing leakage. \- Encourage scheduled voiding to reduce bladder overfilling.\ - Use protective undergarments as needed and maintain skin integrity.\ - Perform bladder scans regularly to monitor residual volume. **Kidney Damage** Chronic retention can lead to kidney dysfunction or failure from prolonged backpressure. \- Monitor renal function tests (e.g., BUN, creatinine) regularly.\ - Collaborate with a physician for early intervention in cases of suspected kidney involvement.\ - Educate the patient on recognizing early signs of complications like flank pain or changes in urine output. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **4. Nursing Implications for Key Diagnostics, Common Medical Treatments, and Pharmacological Treatments for Clients with UTIs, UI, and UR** --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)** ----------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Aspect** **Key Details** **Nursing Implications** **Key Diagnostics** **Urinalysis**: Identifies presence of bacteria, WBCs, nitrites, blood, and protein. \- Collect a clean-catch or midstream urine sample.\ - Educate the patient on proper sample collection to avoid contamination. **Urine Culture and Sensitivity**: Identifies the causative organism and guides antibiotic therapy. \- Ensure sterile technique when collecting samples.\ - Label and transport the sample to the lab promptly. **Imaging Studies (e.g., Ultrasound, CT scan)**: Evaluates anatomical abnormalities or obstructions. \- Prepare the patient for diagnostic imaging if required (e.g., explain procedures, assess for contrast allergies if needed). **Common Medical Treatments** **Antibiotics**: The cornerstone of treatment to eradicate the infection. \- Administer antibiotics as prescribed and monitor for adverse reactions.\ - Educate the patient on completing the full course of antibiotics. **Hydration**: Promotes flushing of bacteria from the urinary tract. \- Encourage increased fluid intake unless contraindicated (e.g., heart failure, kidney disease). **Symptom Management**: Local heat application for comfort in case of suprapubic pain. \- Provide warm compresses or suggest warm showers to alleviate discomfort. **Pharmacological Treatments** **Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX)**: Common for uncomplicated UTIs. \- Monitor for allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itching).\ - Educate on avoiding sun exposure due to increased photosensitivity. **Nitrofurantoin**: Used for lower UTIs. \- Administer with food to reduce gastrointestinal side effects.\ - Monitor for pulmonary reactions, especially in long-term use. **Fluoroquinolones (e.g., Ciprofloxacin)**: Used for complicated or recurrent UTIs. \- Monitor for side effects like tendon pain (risk of tendonitis or rupture).\ - Avoid use in pregnant patients unless necessary. **Analgesics (e.g., Phenazopyridine)**: Provides relief from burning and pain during urination. \- Educate the patient that this may turn urine orange/red and is not a cause for concern.\ - Use for a limited duration as prescribed. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Urinary Incontinence (UI)** -------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Aspect** **Key Details** **Nursing Implications** **Key Diagnostics** **Bladder Diary**: Tracks voiding patterns, fluid intake, and leakage episodes. \- Assist the patient in maintaining an accurate bladder log to identify patterns and triggers. **Postvoid Residual (PVR) Measurement**: Evaluates incomplete bladder emptying. \- Use a bladder scanner or catheterization to measure PVR and assess for retention. **Urodynamic Testing**: Assesses bladder function and detrusor muscle activity. \- Prepare the patient by explaining the procedure and ensuring comfort during testing. **Pelvic Exam**: Identifies structural issues such as prolapse or weakened pelvic muscles. \- Provide privacy and ensure patient comfort during the exam.\ - Educate about the relevance of findings to UI. **Common Medical Treatments** **Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (Kegel Exercises)**: Strengthens muscles to improve continence. \- Teach proper technique and encourage adherence to daily practice. **Bladder Training**: Establishes a schedule for voiding to reduce urgency and frequency. \- Assist in creating a toileting schedule and provide positive reinforcement for adherence. **Environmental Modifications**: Improves access to toileting for functional incontinence. \- Ensure the patient's environment is safe and accessible (e.g., bedside commodes, grab bars). **Absorbent Products**: Temporary management for incontinence episodes. \- Educate on proper use of products and emphasize that they are not a solution, but a tool for support. **Pharmacological Treatments** **Antimuscarinics (e.g., Oxybutynin, Tolterodine)**: Relaxes the bladder muscle for urge incontinence. \- Monitor for side effects such as dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision.\ - Educate the patient to avoid dehydration. **Beta-3 Adrenergic Agonists (e.g., Mirabegron)**: Helps relax the bladder and increase capacity. \- Monitor for increased blood pressure as a potential side effect.\ - Educate on proper administration and adherence. **Topical Estrogen**: Improves bladder control in postmenopausal women by enhancing tissue health. \- Educate on correct application and monitor for side effects like irritation. **Alpha-Blockers (e.g., Tamsulosin)**: Used for overflow incontinence caused by an enlarged prostate. \- Monitor for hypotension and educate on slow position changes to avoid dizziness. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Urinary Retention (UR)** -------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Aspect** **Key Details** **Nursing Implications** **Key Diagnostics** **Postvoid Residual (PVR) Measurement**: Assesses the amount of urine left in the bladder after voiding. \- Use a bladder scanner or intermittent catheterization to measure PVR.\ - Educate the patient on the purpose of this test and what to expect. **Urinalysis**: Detects infection, hematuria, or other abnormalities that may contribute to retention. \- Collect a clean-catch or sterile catheterized sample and transport it promptly to the lab.\ - Educate on proper sample collection techniques. **Imaging Studies (e.g., Ultrasound, CT scan)**: Evaluates structural obstructions like enlarged prostate or tumors. \- Prepare the patient by explaining the procedure and assessing for allergies if contrast is used. **Urodynamic Studies**: Measures bladder pressure and functionality. \- Explain the procedure to alleviate anxiety.\ - Monitor for discomfort during and after the test. **Common Medical Treatments** **Intermittent Catheterization**: Used to relieve acute or chronic retention. \- Use sterile technique to prevent infection.\ - Teach the patient or caregiver how to perform self-catheterization if indicated. **Indwelling Catheterization**: Provides continuous drainage in severe cases. \- Monitor for signs of infection (e.g., cloudy urine, fever).\ - Perform regular catheter care to prevent complications. **Surgical Interventions**: Includes procedures like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) for obstructive causes. \- Prepare the patient for surgery with preoperative education.\ - Monitor for post-surgical complications like bleeding or infection. **Pharmacological Treatments** **Alpha-Blockers (e.g., Tamsulosin)**: Relaxes the muscles in the bladder neck and prostate for improved urine flow. \- Monitor for side effects like dizziness and orthostatic hypotension.\ - Educate the patient to rise slowly from seated positions. **5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors (e.g., Finasteride)**: Reduces prostate size in cases of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). \- Educate the patient that effects may take several months.\ - Monitor for side effects like decreased libido or erectile dysfunction. **Cholinergics (e.g., Bethanechol)**: Stimulates bladder contractions to improve emptying. \- Monitor for side effects like abdominal cramping or hypotension.\ - Administer as prescribed and educate on timing around meals. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **5. Nursing Process Plan of Care for Clients with UTIs, UI, and UR** ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)** ----------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Step** **Key Actions** **Example** **Assessment** \- Gather health history: Previous UTIs, recent urinary symptoms (e.g., dysuria, urgency, frequency). \- Patient reports dysuria and urgency with cloudy, foul-smelling urine over the past 3 days. \- Perform a physical examination: Assess suprapubic tenderness, vital signs (e.g., fever, tachycardia). \- Patient has a low-grade fever (38°C) and suprapubic discomfort. \- Conduct urinalysis and urine culture to confirm infection and identify causative organism. \- Urinalysis shows bacteria, WBCs, and nitrites; culture pending. **Diagnosis** \- Identify nursing diagnoses: \- **Acute pain** related to bladder inflammation.\ - **Risk for infection** related to inadequate antibiotic compliance. \- Prioritize based on symptoms and risks. **Planning** \- Establish goals with measurable outcomes: \- Patient will report reduced dysuria and urgency within 48 hours of starting antibiotics.\ - Patient will maintain adequate hydration. \- Set priorities to address pain and infection prevention. **Implementation** \- Administer prescribed antibiotics as ordered and monitor for adverse effects. \- Administer Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX) twice daily as prescribed. \- Encourage increased fluid intake to dilute urine and flush bacteria. \- Educate patient to drink at least 6--8 glasses of water per day unless contraindicated. \- Provide patient education on completing the full course of antibiotics and monitoring for recurring symptoms. \- Teach patient to report persistent symptoms or fever after 48 hours of antibiotic therapy. \- Promote proper hygiene practices to prevent reinfection (e.g., wiping front to back, urinating after intercourse). \- Provide hygiene instruction during patient discharge teaching. **Evaluation** \- Assess patient's response to interventions: \- Patient reports reduced dysuria and urgency within 48 hours.\ - Patient demonstrates understanding of antibiotic adherence and proper hygiene practices. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ **Urinary Incontinence (UI)** ------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Step** **Key Actions** **Example** **Assessment** \- Gather health history: Type, frequency, and severity of incontinence; history of pregnancies, surgeries, or neurological conditions. \- Patient reports stress incontinence with urine leakage during coughing and sneezing. \- Perform a physical assessment: Assess pelvic floor strength, bladder distention, and skin integrity. \- No signs of bladder distention; perineal area shows mild irritation from frequent leakage. \- Collect diagnostic data: Bladder diary, postvoid residual (PVR) measurement, urinalysis to rule out infections. \- Patient's bladder diary indicates frequent daytime leakage but no nighttime episodes. **Diagnosis** \- Identify nursing diagnoses: \- **Impaired urinary elimination** related to weak pelvic floor muscles.\ - **Risk for impaired skin integrity** related to frequent exposure to urine. \- Prioritize based on symptoms and risks. **Planning** \- Establish goals with measurable outcomes: \- Patient will report a reduction in leakage episodes within two weeks of initiating pelvic floor exercises.\ - Patient's perineal skin will remain intact and irritation-free during treatment. \- Set priorities to address incontinence and prevent complications such as skin breakdown or infection. **Implementation** \- Teach pelvic floor exercises (e.g., Kegels) to strengthen bladder control. \- Instruct the patient to perform 10 repetitions of pelvic floor exercises, three times daily. \- Educate on bladder training techniques, such as scheduled voiding, to reduce urgency and frequency. \- Encourage patient to void every 2--3 hours, gradually extending intervals as bladder control improves. \- Promote proper perineal care to maintain skin integrity and prevent irritation or infection. \- Use a barrier cream and ensure perineal area is cleaned gently after episodes of leakage. \- Encourage lifestyle modifications, such as weight loss, avoiding bladder irritants (e.g., caffeine, alcohol), and fluid management. \- Advise patient to limit fluid intake in the evening to reduce nocturia. \- Provide information on absorbent products and ensure the patient knows they are temporary measures, not a solution. \- Recommend appropriate incontinence pads for daytime use. **Evaluation** \- Assess the patient's response to interventions: \- Patient reports fewer leakage episodes within two weeks.\ - Patient demonstrates correct pelvic floor exercise technique.\ - Perineal skin remains intact and irritation-free. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Urinary Retention (UR)** ---------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Step** **Key Actions** **Example** **Assessment** \- Gather health history: Onset, duration, and severity of retention; any associated symptoms like pain, dribbling, or weak urine stream. \- Patient reports difficulty starting urination, frequent dribbling, and feeling of incomplete emptying for two weeks. \- Perform a physical assessment: Palpate for bladder distention, assess suprapubic tenderness, and monitor vital signs. \- Bladder is palpable and firm above the pubic symphysis; patient reports mild suprapubic discomfort. \- Conduct diagnostic tests: Postvoid residual (PVR) measurement, urinalysis to rule out UTI, imaging studies to identify obstruction. \- PVR is 300 mL; urinalysis shows no infection; ultrasound indicates no anatomical abnormalities. **Diagnosis** \- Identify nursing diagnoses: \- **Urinary retention** related to impaired bladder contractility.\ - **Risk for infection** related to incomplete bladder emptying. \- Prioritize based on the severity of retention and potential for complications like infection or kidney damage. **Planning** \- Establish goals with measurable outcomes: \- Patient will void with complete bladder emptying within 48 hours of treatment initiation.\ - Patient will demonstrate understanding of bladder management techniques by discharge. \- Set priorities to address acute retention and prevent complications. **Implementation** \- Relieve retention through appropriate interventions, such as intermittent or indwelling catheterization. \- Perform sterile intermittent catheterization to drain the bladder. \- Teach double voiding or scheduled toileting techniques to promote bladder emptying. \- Encourage patient to void, wait 3--5 minutes, and try voiding again to ensure complete emptying. \- Administer prescribed medications, such as alpha-blockers (e.g., tamsulosin) to relax the bladder neck and prostate. \- Educate patient on potential side effects like dizziness and advise slow position changes. \- Encourage adequate hydration to maintain kidney function and reduce risk of infection. \- Advise the patient to drink 6--8 glasses of water daily unless contraindicated. \- Promote lifestyle modifications: Address constipation, avoid bladder irritants, and encourage regular voiding schedules. \- Educate on a high-fiber diet to prevent constipation and ensure proper bladder function. \- Provide emotional support, as urinary retention can cause embarrassment or anxiety. \- Discuss patient concerns and reassure them about the management plan. **Evaluation** \- Assess the patient's response to interventions: \- Patient voids with reduced PVR (\