What should a nurse assess for in a client with a urinary tract infection?

In the context of a urinary tract infection (UTI), increased frequency of urination is a hallmark symptom. This occurs because the infection irritates the bladder and urethra, leading to a strong, persistent urge to urinate. As the body’s response to the infection, the individual may feel the need to urinate more often, even if only a small amount of urine is produced each time.

This symptom is part of a broader set of signs and symptoms associated with UTIs, which may also include urgency to urinate and dysuria, or painful urination. Recognizing increased urination frequency is critical for a nurse as it prompts appropriate interventions and ensures timely treatment, thus reducing the risk of complications.

The other symptoms, while relevant to a UTI, may not be as distinct as increased frequency. Decreased urine output can occur, particularly in severe cases or when significant obstruction is present, but it is not a direct symptom of a typical UTI. Hematuria may be observed but does not always occur, and abdominal pain can be present as well, but again, increased frequency is more consistently reported by clients experiencing a UTI. Hence, when assessing for a urinary tract infection, increased frequency of urination is a primary and