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RN Nursing · Urinary Tract Infections · Practice question

The nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client with a diagnosis of pyelonephritis. Which disorder, if noted on the client's record, would the nurse identify as a risk factor for this disorder?

Answer & explanation

Correct: Diabetes mellitus

Pyelonephritis is a bacterial infection of the renal parenchyma and pelvis. Diabetes mellitus is a well-recognized risk factor because hyperglycemia impairs neutrophil function, reduces the ability to fight infection, and promotes bacterial growth in the urinary tract. Additionally, diabetic autonomic neuropathy can cause bladder dysfunction and urinary stasis, allowing bacteria to ascend from the bladder to the kidneys. Hypoglycemia is not associated with urinary tract infections or pyelonephritis. Coronary artery disease affects the cardiovascular system and does not directly predispose to renal infections. Orthostatic hypotension involves blood pressure regulation and does not create conditions that favor ascending urinary infection. Among the options, only diabetes mellitus creates the immunological and physiological environment that significantly increases the risk of developing pyelonephritis. The keyed answer is correct.

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