What is the client instructed to do while taking nitrofurantoin to manage urinary tract infections?

Increasing fluid intake is essential for clients taking nitrofurantoin to manage urinary tract infections. Adequate hydration helps to dilute the urine, which can assist in flushing bacteria out of the urinary tract. Additionally, a higher fluid volume may alleviate potential side effects of the medication and support kidney function, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the treatment.

This recommendation aligns with the goal of promoting urinary flow, which can help eliminate infectious agents more quickly. Maintaining hydration can also reduce the risk of urinary concentration, where concentrated urine can sometimes exacerbate irritation or discomfort associated with urinary tract infections.

Other options do not support optimal management during nitrofurantoin therapy. Limiting fluid intake would counteract the advantage of flushing out the urinary system. Taking the medication with orange juice, while not harmful, has no specific benefit and does not align with managing the infection effectively. Avoiding straining while urinating is important for comfort, but it does not directly impact the treatment or effectiveness of nitrofurantoin in the way that increased fluid intake does.