A nurse is emptying a client's urinal when she notices the urine is dark amber, cloudy, and has an unpleasant odor. The nurse should identify that these findings are likely to be the result ofwhich of the following?

a. Ineffective airway clearance: This is the priority as it addresses the immediate threat to the client's respiratory status. Accumulation of thick, copious secretions can lead to airway

obstruction and respiratory distress.

b. Malnourishment: While important, addressing malnourishment is not an immediate

postoperative priority. The client may receive nutrition through alternative means until normal swallowing function is restored.

c. High risk for infection: Infection is a concern, but ensuring airway clearance takes precedence in the immediate postoperative period.

d. Impaired verbal communication: Verbal communication is important, but it is not as immediate a concern as ensuring the airway is clear to prevent respiratory compromise.

a. Urinary retention: Dark amber, cloudy, and malodorous urine is not typically associated with urinary retention. Urinary retention usually results in a lower-than-normal urine output.

b. Urinary incontinence: Incontinence refers to the inability to control urine flow and does not directly cause changes in urine color, clarity, or odor.

c. Urinary frequency: Increased frequency of urination is not typically associated with dark amber, cloudy, and malodorous urine.

d. Urinary tract infection (UTI): Dark amber, cloudy, and foul-smelling urine are common signs of a urinary tract infection. The infection causes changes in the appearance and odor of urine due to the presence of bacteria and inflammatory cells.