Question

A client's urinary output is \(450 \mathrm{ml}\) in 24 hours. Which term could the nurse use when documenting about the client's urinary elimination status? a. Anuria b. Oliguria c. Dysuria d. Nocturia

Short answer

b. Oliguria

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Definitions

Familiarize with the terms provided in the options: - Anuria: Total absence of urine output or urine output less than 50 ml in 24 hours.- Oliguria: Urine output between 100 ml to 400 ml in 24 hours. Some sources consider Oliguria as urine output less than 500 ml in 24 hours.- Dysuria: Painful or difficult urination.- Nocturia: Frequent urination at night.

Assess the Given Output

The client's urinary output is given as 450 ml in 24 hours.

Compare Output and Definitions

Determine which definition best matches the given urinary output. Since 450 ml falls between the range provided by some definitions of Oliguria (100-400 ml) and slightly overlaps with others (less than 500 ml), it is the closest match to Oliguria.

Key concepts

oliguria definition

Oliguria is a medical term used to describe a condition where the body produces a reduced amount of urine. It is generally defined as having a urinary output between 100 and 400 milliliters in a span of 24 hours. However, some sources extend this range up to 500 milliliters. This condition can be indicative of various underlying issues such as dehydration, kidney dysfunction, or urinary tract obstruction.
Understanding the definition of oliguria is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment. If a person is experiencing oliguria, it should raise concerns that require further assessment and likely consultation with a healthcare professional. Treatment for oliguria typically aims at identifying and addressing the underlying cause, which may involve fluid management, medications, or surgical interventions.

client urinary assessment

Assessing a client's urinary output is a fundamental part of nursing care and involves several steps to ensure accurate measurements and evaluations. Here are key points to consider:

• First, measure the total urine output over a 24-hour period using a graduated container to ensure precision.
• Observe and record the color, clarity, odor, and volume of the urine. Any abnormalities in these aspects can give clues about possible underlying conditions.
• Ask the client about their urination patterns—how often they urinate, any pain or discomfort (dysuria), and any instances of waking to urinate at night (nocturia).
• Document these findings meticulously in the client's medical record, using correct medical terminology like oliguria if applicable.
• Attempt to correlate the urinary output with fluid intake and other relevant factors like medications, existing medical conditions, and their recent activities.

Accurate assessment helps identify or rule out problems and is essential for forming a comprehensive care plan.

nursing documentation

Nursing documentation is a critical aspect of patient care. It ensures that all care provided is recorded, allowing for clear and effective communication among healthcare providers and serving as a legal record of the care provided. Here’s what to focus on:

• Documenting urinary output: Always record urine volume, frequency, and any related symptoms like pain or discomfort.
• Using correct terminology: Be precise and use standardized medical terms like oliguria to describe low urine output.
• Keeping records up-to-date: Make real-time entries to ensure that all information is current and accurate.
• Including subjective and objective data: Incorporate observed data (e.g., urine volume) and patient-reported symptoms (e.g., pain during urination).
• Ensuring clarity and legibility: Write clearly to avoid misunderstandings, especially when hand-written records are involved.

Good documentation practices make it easier for all team members to follow the patient’s progress and make informed decisions regarding their care. Additionally, documenting thoroughly and accurately is crucial for legal purposes, ensuring that the provided care meets the standards of the nursing profession.