What preventative measure should a nurse recommend to a female client with chronic urinary tract infections?

Recommending that the client drink 2 liters of warm water per day is a preventative measure that can significantly help in managing and reducing the frequency of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Adequate hydration is crucial because it encourages regular urination, which helps to flush bacteria out of the urinary tract and decreases the chances of infection. Warm water can also provide comfort and may help to soothe any irritation caused by existing inflammation or infection.

Staying well-hydrated helps dilute urine, which can reduce the concentration of substances that might irritate the bladder. Continuous flushing of the urinary system is an effective strategy in preventing bacterial colonization and subsequently preventing UTIs.

Other options may not provide the same level of prevention or could even be counterproductive. For instance, taking antibiotics before sexual activity might only serve as a temporary solution and could also contribute to antibiotic resistance with overuse. Limiting citrus fruit intake is not generally supported as effective for UTI prevention; in fact, certain citrus fruits can be beneficial due to their vitamin C content, which can promote acidity in urine. The use of scented soap for hygiene could potentially irritate the genital area further, disrupting the natural flora and increasing the risk for infections rather than preventing them.