Patient/caregiver was instructed on pathophysiology of UTI as follows:
- Urinary tract infection is infection of any part of the urinary system, involving kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder, and urethra.
- Usually UTIs involve the lower part of the urinary system, comprising urethra and urinary bladder.
- Normally urinary system is sterile and does not allow growth of any infecting microorganisms. Natural defenses, such as, immunity, acidic environment in the urinary tract, periodical emptying of bladder, contribute significantly to keeping the urine sterile and preventing growth of microorganisms.
- Compromised immunity, changes in the environment of urinary tract, urinary retention, and many other factors contribute to failure of the natural defense mechanisms helping to prevent UTIs.
- This can lead to increased growth of infective microorganisms in the urinary system, resulting in UTI.
