Which statement should a nurse make to a client at 20 weeks gestation reporting urinary frequency and pain?

At 20 weeks gestation, a client reporting urinary frequency and pain necessitates careful assessment to rule out potential complications such as a urinary tract infection (UTI). The correct response encourages timely medical evaluation, as UTIs are known to be common during pregnancy due to various physiological changes, including hormonal influences and the anatomical position of the urinary tract.

While urinary frequency can be a normal occurrence as the uterus expands and places pressure on the bladder, the addition of pain is a symptom that should not be overlooked. Pain during urination is not typically a normal symptom associated with pregnancy and indicates the need for further investigation. Therefore, directing the client to consider a medical evaluation ensures appropriate management of their symptoms and contributes to the overall safety and well-being of both the mother and the fetus.

Suggestions like drinking cranberry juice may be helpful for some common UTI symptoms, but they do not replace the need for medical diagnosis or treatment. Similarly, educating about proper wiping techniques is important for hygiene but does not address the need to investigate the cause of the current symptoms. Recognizing the importance of seeking proper care when experiencing unusual symptoms is crucial in the context of prenatal health.