ATI Medsurg Proctored Final Exam Related

Review ATI Medsurg Proctored Final Exam related questions and content

A nurse is planning care for a client with a T4 spinal cord injury at risk for UTIs. What should be included?

  • A. Limit fluid intake.
  • B. Encourage fluid intake at and between meals.
  • C. Restrict intake of acidic foods.
  • D. Use an indwelling catheter continuously.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Encourage fluid intake at and between meals. This is because increasing fluid intake helps to flush out bacteria from the urinary tract, reducing the risk of UTIs. Limiting fluid intake (choice A) can lead to concentrated urine, making it easier for bacteria to multiply. Restricting acidic foods (choice C) does not directly impact the risk of UTIs. Using an indwelling catheter continuously (choice D) actually increases the risk of UTIs due to the constant presence of a foreign body in the urinary tract. Encouraging fluid intake at and between meals is the most effective way to prevent UTIs in clients with spinal cord injuries.