A 70-year-old client is discussing his recent difficulty in initiating

A 70-year-old client is discussing his recent difficulty in initiating his flow of urine while on a cross-country bus tour with a senior citizens’ group. Which of the following assessment questions is directed toward the most likely cause of the problem?

1. “Did the bus stop frequently so you could get up and walk around?”
2. “Did you drink plenty of water while you were on the trip?”
3. “Do you find using public restrooms unsettling?”
4. “Do you have any chronic urinary problems?”

ANSWER

ANS: 3
Attempting to void in a public restroom sometimes results in a temporary inability to void. Alt-hough the remaining options may affect urination, this situation strongly suggests an emotional cause.