Question

After being diagnosed with pyelonephritis, the client asks the nurse what causes this disorder. The nurse's response would be based on the knowledge that the most common cause of pyelonephritis is/are a. urethritis and cystitis b. potassium imbalances c. sodium imbalances d. uremic syndrome

Short answer

The most common cause of pyelonephritis implied in the nurse's response is a. urethritis and cystitis, as these can ascend and infect the kidneys.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Pyelonephritis

Pyelonephritis is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI) that generally starts in the urethra or bladder and travels up into the kidneys, causing inflammation.

Identify the Common Causes

The common cause of pyelonephritis is typically bacterial infection originating from the lower urinary tract, particularly from Escherichia coli (E. coli).

Eliminate Incorrect Options

Knowing that pyelonephritis is caused by a bacterial infection, you can eliminate potassium and sodium imbalances, as well as uremic syndrome which do not describe an infectious process. Urethritis and cystitis are types of infections that can indeed ascend to the kidneys, causing pyelonephritis.

Key concepts

Urinary Tract Infection

(UTI) with its more common symptoms like burning during urination or the frequent need to urinate. However, it's important to delve into how a UTI can lead to more serious conditions. A UTI occurs when bacteria, usually from the bowel, enter the urethra and infect the urinary bladder. This is typically caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli), which ordinarily lives in the colon.

When treated promptly, a simple UTI can be resolved with a course of antibiotics. However, if left untreated, the bacteria can ascend via the ureters to the kidneys, resulting in a kidney infection or pyelonephritis. It's paramount to recognize symptoms early, which include flank pain, fever, and cloudy urine, to prevent the infection from reaching the kidneys.

NCLEX-RN Examination

For nursing students preparing for their licensing exam, the NCLEX -RN examination is a pivotal hurdle. This exam is designed to test the knowledge, skills, and abilities that are essential for the safe and effective practice of nursing at the entry-level. Understanding conditions like UTIs and pyelonephritis is important for the exam as it tests not just memorization but application of nursing concepts.

The NCLEX-RN covers a wide range of topics, including infection control and management, which directly relates to the proper identification and treatment of infections like UTIs. In training for the NCLEX-RN, candidates are advised to study thoroughly, understand the typical causes and progression of common infections, and know the appropriate nursing interventions for preventing complications such as pyelonephritis.

Kidney Infection

A kidney infection, also known as pyelonephritis, is a serious health condition that requires immediate medical attention. This type of infection typically begins lower in the urinary tract but can quickly travel up to the kidneys causing severe pain, fever, and sometimes leading to permanent kidney damage.

Often, the first line of defense against kidney infections is a course of antibiotics to combat the bacterial invaders. In more serious cases, hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics may be necessary. Students should understand that preventing a UTI from escalating into a kidney infection involves measures such as maintaining proper hygiene, staying hydrated, and recognizing symptoms early on.