A nurse is in the process of taking a patient’s oral temperature.
The patient informs the nurse that they have just consumed some ice chips. What should the nurse do next?

Choice A rationale

Urinary retention refers to the inability to empty the bladder completely. While it can cause discomfort and bloating, it does not typically result in dark amber, cloudy urine with an unpleasant odor.

Choice B rationale

Urinary incontinence is the loss of bladder control, leading to the involuntary leakage of urine. It does not cause the urine to become dark amber, cloudy, or have an unpleasant odor.

Choice C rationale

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of the urinary system — kidneys, bladder, urethra. Most UTIs are caused by bacteria, but they can also be caused by viruses or fungi. Symptoms of a UTI often include cloudy, dark, or strong-smelling urine.

Choice D rationale

Urinary frequency refers to needing to urinate more often than usual. It can be a symptom of many different issues, including a UTI, but on its own, it does not cause the urine to become dark amber, cloudy, or have an unpleasant odor.

Choice A rationale

The nurse should respect the patient’s need for space while also expressing willingness to talk when the patient is ready.

Choice B rationale

Telling the patient “Everything will be okay” may seem dismissive of the patient’s feelings and may not be helpful in this situation.

Choice C rationale

Asking “Do you feel like crying helps?” might come across as judgmental or dismissive.

Choice D rationale

Asking “Would you like to be alone?” might make the patient feel isolated or abandoned.