A nurse is caring for a child who has a urinary tract infection. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationale: A positive leukocyte esterase test indicates the presence of white blood cells (leukocytes) in the urine, which can be an indicator of a urinary tract infection (UTI). White blood cells are part of the body's immune response and their presence in the urine suggests inflammation and infection in the urinary tract. Choice B rationale: Deep gold-colored urine is not typically associated with a urinary tract infection. Normally, urine color can vary based on hydration, diet, and other factors, but color alone is not a reliable indicator of a UTI. Choice C rationale: The osmolality of 700 mOsm/L is not a specific finding related to urinary tract infections. Osmolality measures the concentration of particles in the urine and can vary based on hydration status. While it might be elevated in a concentrated urine sample, it is not a direct indicator of a UTI. Choice D rationale: A specific gravity of 1.015 is within the normal range and does not necessarily indicate a urinary tract infection. Specific gravity measures the concentration of solutes in the urine and can be influenced by hydration levels and kidney function. A UTI would primarily be indicated by the presence of white blood cells and other signs of infection in the urine.