Psychiatric Technician Practice Exam

What are the most common symptoms of a urinary tract infection?

1. Fever and chills

2. Nausea and vomiting

3. Chest pain and shortness of breath

4. Dysuria, urinary frequency, and urgency

The correct answer is: Dysuria, urinary frequency, and urgency

Dysuria, urinary frequency, and urgency are the hallmark symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI). Dysuria refers to painful or difficult urination, which is often a primary complaint in individuals suffering from a UTI. Urinary frequency describes the need to urinate more often than normal, even if little urine is produced. Urgency is the sudden and strong need to urinate immediately, which is also characteristic of UTI. These symptoms are directly related to inflammation and irritation of the urinary tract, usually caused by bacterial infection. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment, helping to alleviate discomfort and prevent complications. While fever and chills can occur in cases of more severe infections, such as pyelonephritis (a kidney infection), they are not typical symptoms of a simple UTI. Nausea and vomiting might also be seen, especially in more serious urinary infections, but they are not specific to UTIs. Similarly, chest pain and shortness of breath are symptoms associated with cardiac or respiratory issues, not urinary tract infections. Thus, the symptoms listed in the correct answer directly reflect those most commonly and specifically observed in individuals with UTIs.