NURSING 265 Lecture Notes - Lecture 9: Urinary Tract Infection, Kegel Exercise, Frequent Urination
Document Summary
Urinary frequency may occur during the first and third trimesters. The client should empty her bladder frequently, decrease fluid intake before bedtime, and use perineal pads. The client is taught how to perform kegel exercises (alternate tightening and relaxation of pubococcygeal muscles) to reduce stress incontinence (leakage of urine with coughing and sneezing). Urinary tract infections (utis) are common during pregnancy because of renal changes and the vaginal flora becoming more alkaline. Uti risks can be decreased by encouraging the client to wipe the perineal area from front to back after voiding; avoiding bubble baths; wearing cotton underpants; avoiding tight-fitting pants; and consuming plenty of water (8 glasses per day). The client should urinate before and after intercourse to flush bacteria from the urethra that are present or introduced during intercourse. Advise the client to urinate as soon as the urge occurs because retaining urine provides an environment for bacterial growth.
