NR 224 Week 5 Supplemental Assignment; Urinary Elimination

NR 224- Week 5 Edapts Urinary Elimination Introduction to Urinary Elimination The urinary tract is the body's drainage system for removing urine. Urine is composed of waste and extra fluid. For normal urination to occur, all parts of the urinary tract need to work together in the correct order. The amount of urine a person produces depends on many factors, including liquid consumption, hormone secretion, and fluid lost through other sources, including perspiration and water vapor from exhalation. Care for the client includes monitoring many factors that affect urinary function, such as fluid intake, medications, functional ability, environment, medical problems outside the urinary tract, and dysfunction within the urinary tract. When problems with urinary elimination occur, serious health issues can arise. Healthcare providers need to manage bladder elimination when medical treatments restrict normal function. Normal Urine Characteristics Normal urine should appear to be a pale straw color that is transparent and free from odor. Darker-colored urine suggests dehydration, potential blood in the urine, possible liver disease, or medication interaction. Urine that is turbid or cloudy suggests infection or possibly renal calculi. Factors Affecting Urinary Elimination Poor pelvic muscle tone can lead to urinary incontinence, while renal calculi (kidney stones) impact the flow of urine. Body position impacts the ability to empty the bladder. Age and medication often impair the ability to effectively control the bladder. Hydration status relates to the frequency of urination and the kidneys' ability to process and eliminate waste. Constipation does not affect urinary elimination but may be affected by some of the same problems. Defining Urine Symptoms Urgency: An immediate desire to void Polyuria: Voiding excessive amounts of urine Dysuria: Pain or discomfort with voiding Oliguria: Diminished amounts of urine Frequency: Voiding more than 8 times, while awake Nocturia: Awakening from sleep to void Hesitancy: Delay at the start of urination Hematuria: Blood in the urine Urinary incontinence: Involuntary evacuation of urine Urinary retention: Inability to empty the bladder Factors Affecting Urinary Elimination Growth and Development Children cannot control urination until 18-24 months of age. Nocturnal enuresis is common in children less than 6 years old. Incontinence can affect all ages, but is more common in older adults. 45656587024Psychological, Sociocultural, and Personal Habits Psychological, Sociocultural, and Personal Habits Anxiety and stress can cause urinary urgency or retention. Cultural and social expectations of privacy when voiding, use of public restrooms, and time used for elimination can affect urination. Positioning and Muscle Tone Positioning and Muscle Tone Weak abdominal and pelvic floor muscles cause incontinence. Indwelling catheters cause loss of bladder tone. Urination may be improved or more difficult in different positions. 45656587099Food and Fluids Food and Fluids Caffeine and alcohol are mild diuretics, while sodium causes fluid retention. 45656587009Pathologic Conditions Pathologic Conditions Diabetes, multiple sclerosis, stroke, organ failure, and spinal cord injuries affect the production of urine, the act of urinating, and/or the ability to empty the bladder. Medication and Surgery Medication and Surgery Anesthetics and narcotics can cause the retention of urine. Diuretics, like furosemide and