What should a nurse include in the care plan for a female client with a T4 spinal cord injury to prevent urinary tract infections?

Encouraging fluid intake at and between meals is vital in preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs), especially for a female client with a T4 spinal cord injury. Adequate hydration helps maintain a dilute urine, which can reduce the risk of bacteria multiplying in the urinary tract. Increased fluid intake promotes frequent urination, which can help flush out any potential pathogens present in the bladder.

In clients with spinal cord injuries, the risk of UTIs is heightened due to potential bladder dysfunction, making it even more crucial to encourage hydration. By ensuring the client drinks enough fluids, the nurse plays a proactive role in minimizing the risk of infection.

In contrast, the other options may not align with best practices for preventing UTIs. For example, cleansing the perineum from back to front can actually increase the risk of introducing bacteria from the anal area into the urethra. Using an indwelling urinary catheter may elevate the infection risk due to the invasive nature of the device unless there are specific indications for its use. Lastly, offering the client a bedpan every 2 hours does not inherently address UTI prevention, especially if fluid intake is insufficient to prompt regular voiding. Thus, promoting adequate fluid intake remains the most effective strategy for minimizing