Which of the following statements accurately describes the term “micturition”?
The act of experiencing total urinary incontinence.
The act of emptying the urinary bladder.
The condition of being unable to completely empty the urinary bladder.
The act of catheterizing the urinary bladder.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Total urinary incontinence is the involuntary loss of all urine from the bladder. It is not synonymous with micturition, which is a controlled process of bladder emptying.
Incontinence can stem from various factors, including neurological disorders, muscle weakness, medication side effects, and structural abnormalities.
It's essential to distinguish between incontinence and micturition for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Choice B rationale:
Micturition, also known as urination or voiding, is the physiological process of emptying the urinary bladder. It involves a coordinated interplay between the nervous system, bladder muscles, and urethral sphincters. When the bladder fills with urine, stretch receptors signal the nervous system, prompting the urge to urinate. If conditions are appropriate, the nervous system initiates a series of events:
The detrusor muscle in the bladder wall contracts.
The internal urethral sphincter relaxes, opening the pathway for urine to flow.
The external urethral sphincter, under voluntary control, relaxes to allow urine to pass through the urethra and out of the body.
Choice C rationale:
The inability to completely empty the bladder is called urinary retention.
It can result from various causes, including obstruction (e.g., enlarged prostate, urethral stricture), neurological disorders, medications, and pelvic floor dysfunction.
Urinary retention differs from micturition, as it involves incomplete bladder emptying.
Choice D rationale:
Catheterization is the process of inserting a thin, flexible tube (catheter) into the bladder to drain urine.
It's a medical procedure performed for various reasons, such as urinary retention, bladder obstruction, or to collect urine samples.
Catheterization is not a natural process of micturition, but a medical intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale for Choice A:
Sims' position is a side-lying position with the lower arm and leg flexed and the upper arm and leg extended. It is not ideal for bladder scanning because it can displace the bladder and potentially lead to inaccurate readings. While it can be used for other purposes, such as inserting rectal suppositories or performing vaginal exams, it's not the optimal choice for bladder scanning.
Rationale for Choice B:
Dorsal recumbent position is a supine position with the knees bent and feet flat on the bed. While it provides some exposure of the bladder, it may not fully visualize the entire bladder due to potential compression from the abdominal contents. This can also result in inaccurate readings.
Rationale for Choice D:
High Fowler's position is a semi-sitting position with the head of the bed elevated at a 45- to 60-degree angle. This position is not suitable for bladder scanning because it can cause the bladder to shift upward and out of the optimal scanning range. It's typically used for respiratory comfort and procedures involving the head and upper body.
Rationale for Choice C:
Supine position is the best position for bladder scanning because it allows for the most accurate visualization of the bladder. In this position, the patient lies flat on their back with their legs extended. This position allows the bladder to rest naturally in the pelvic cavity, ensuring optimal positioning for the bladder scanner to capture a clear image and provide an accurate measurement of bladder volume. It also promotes patient comfort and relaxation during the procedure.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Skin breakdown:
Prolonged exposure to urine, especially in the presence of incontinence briefs, can irritate and macerate the skin, leading to breakdown.
Factors contributing to skin breakdown:
Moisture from urine:
Creates a warm, moist environment ideal for bacterial growth.
Disrupts the skin's natural barrier function, making it more susceptible to damage.
Friction from incontinence briefs:
Can rub against the skin, causing irritation and further damage.
Chemical irritants in urine:
Ammonia and other substances in urine can further irritate and damage the skin.
Signs of skin breakdown:
Redness, warmth, tenderness, or swelling of the skin.
Blisters, erosions, or ulcers.
Pain or discomfort.
Prevention of skin breakdown:
Frequent changing of incontinence briefs (as soon as they become wet or soiled).
Thorough cleansing of the skin with mild soap and water after each change.
Application of a skin barrier cream or ointment to protect the skin.
Use of breathable incontinence briefs that allow air to circulate.
Monitoring of the skin for signs of breakdown and seeking prompt medical attention if any occur. Urinary tract infections (UTIs):
Bacteria from the skin can enter the urinary tract through the urethra, leading to infection.
Factors increasing UTI risk in those with incontinence:
Incomplete bladder emptying:
Residual urine in the bladder provides a breeding ground for bacteria.
Use of incontinence briefs:
Can trap moisture and bacteria near the urethra.
Difficulty with personal hygiene:
May lead to the spread of bacteria from the skin to the urinary tract.
Signs of a UTI:
Frequent urination.
Pain or burning during urination.
Urgency to urinate.
Blood in the urine.
Cloudy or foul-smelling urine.
Prevention of UTIs:
Maintaining good personal hygiene.
Drinking plenty of fluids to help flush bacteria from the urinary tract.
Promptly emptying the bladder when the urge to urinate is felt.
Seeking medical attention if any signs of a UTI occur.
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