A nurse is caring for a client who has benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
A. Painful urination
B. Decreased urinary stream
C. Critically elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level
D. Urge incontinence
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is B. Decreased urinary stream.
Explanation:
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in older men, characterized by the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. This enlargement can compress the urethra, leading to various urinary symptoms.
Decreased urinary stream is a hallmark symptom of BPH. Patients often report a weaker stream of urine, difficulty starting urination, and prolonged voiding times. The enlarged prostate restricts the flow of urine, which can result in a reduced force of the urinary stream, making it one of the primary complaints.
Why the other options are incorrect:
- A. Painful urination: While some men with BPH may experience discomfort, painful urination (dysuria) is not typically associated with BPH itself. It’s more commonly linked to infections or inflammatory conditions of the urinary tract.
- C. Critically elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level: Although BPH can cause an increase in PSA levels, critically elevated levels are more indicative of prostate cancer or other serious prostate conditions. BPH usually causes a modest increase in PSA, not critically elevated levels.
- D. Urge incontinence: While BPH can lead to urinary urgency and frequency, urge incontinence specifically refers to the involuntary loss of urine associated with a sudden, strong urge to urinate. This is not a direct consequence of BPH but can occur if the condition leads to urinary retention and subsequent bladder overactivity.
In summary, decreased urinary stream is the most characteristic symptom associated with BPH, making it the best choice among the options provided. Understanding these symptoms helps nurses and healthcare providers develop effective care plans for patients experiencing BPH.