21. Which sign/symptom in an older adult is most indicative of a urinary tract infection?
Test-Taking Tip
Choose the option that is different from the others (not urine or fever), and unique to the older adult.
Content Area: Geriatric, Urological; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Assessment; Cognitive Level: Analysis; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Reduction of Risk Potential/System Specific Assessments
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Answer 1 is correct because, by the time a UTI is diagnosed, the older adult may begin to show signs of urosepsis, with altered mental status. Answer 2 is incorrect because the older adult may be asymptomatic. Answer 3 is incorrect because aging alters the thermoregulatory response, and the older adult may not have fever with a lower urinary tract infection. Answer 4 is incorrect because the older adult may already have a problem with frequency, as part of the aging process.
