Assignment: Real-Life Challenge- Cystitis
A 35-year-old woman reports pain in the pelvic region and lower back, frequency and urgency of urination, and burning on urination. The onset of symptoms was about 4 hours before the office visit.
Vital signs are temperature, 100.5 degrees F; pulse, 96; respirations, 18; and blood pressure, 130/88. A clean-catch urine specimen is obtained, and it is pink in color and has a foul odor. The urine specimen is sent to the laboratory for a urinalysis and culture and sensitivity. The examination reveals tenderness over the bladder. Microscopic examination of the specimen revealed blood, pus, leukocytes, and bacteria.
A diagnosis of cystitis was made and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim DS) was prescribed. The patient was encouraged to force fluids and was instructed to call the office the next day to report her progress.
I. What is another term for cystitis?
II. What additional symptoms might a patient with cystitis exhibit?
III. What is the usual cause of cystitis?
IV. Why is a urinalysis important in diagnosing cystitis?
V. Why would the urine have a foul odor?
VI. Why would a culture and sensitivity be important in the treatment of cystitis?
VII. What alternative drug therapy is available to treat cystitis?
VIII. Why would the patient be encouraged to force fluids?