What it means
Urinary urgency often comes with needing to go very often (frequency). It is seen with urinary tract infections, overactive bladder and prostate problems. When urine leaks before the person reaches the toilet, it is called urge incontinence. The word is also used for a sudden need to move the bowels.
For the nurse
Keep the call light, urinal or bedside commode within reach and offer the toilet on a schedule. Ask about burning, fever or blood in the urine, and teach the client to cut down on caffeine.
At a glance
| Spanish | urgencia urinaria |
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Related terms
urinary tract infection
An infection anywhere in the urinary tract: the kidneys, ureters, bladder or urethra.
incontinence
Loss of control over the bladder or bowel, so urine or stool leaks out without the person meaning it to.
bladder
The hollow, stretchy organ in the lower belly that stores urine until it leaves the body.