The PN is teaching a female client who has had frequent urinary tract infections. Which statement by the client indicates the need for additional teaching?

The PN is teaching a female client who has had frequent urinary tract infections. Which statement by the client indicates the need for additional teaching?

• A. I should wipe from front to back after using the toilet.
• B. I should wipe from back to front after using the toilet.
• C. I should void after sexual intercourse to flush bacteria.
• D. I should drink cranberry juice daily.

Answer: (B)

Focusing on preventing recurrent UTIs through proper perineal hygiene and timing of voiding helps explain the best guidance. Wiping from front to back keeps bacteria from the anal area away from the urethra, reducing the chance of pushing bacteria into the urinary tract. Wiping from back to front, in contrast, can transfer bacteria to the urethral opening and increase infection risk, especially for someone with frequent UTIs. That statement signals the need for additional teaching. The other two practices—voiding after intercourse to flush out bacteria and cranberry juice as a preventive measure—are commonly recommended approaches, though evidence for cranberry juice varies.

Focusing on preventing recurrent UTIs through proper perineal hygiene and timing of voiding helps explain the best guidance. Wiping from front to back keeps bacteria from the anal area away from the urethra, reducing the chance of pushing bacteria into the urinary tract. Wiping from back to front, in contrast, can transfer bacteria to the urethral opening and increase infection risk, especially for someone with frequent UTIs. That statement signals the need for additional teaching. The other two practices—voiding after intercourse to flush out bacteria and cranberry juice as a preventive measure—are commonly recommended approaches, though evidence for cranberry juice varies.