How should perineal care be performed for a female client to prevent UTI?

• A. Back to front
• B. Top to bottom
• C. Front to back
• D. Circular motion outward

Answer: (C)

The key idea is to cleanse from the front toward the back to protect the urethral opening from contamination. The urethra is near the front, and bacteria from the anal area can cause a urinary tract infection if they are wiped toward the urethra. By wiping in a front-to-back direction (from the urethral opening toward the anus) you minimize dragging bacteria into the urinary tract. Use a clean area of the cloth for each stroke and follow any facility policies, using warm water and mild soap as appropriate. Avoid back-to-front or circular motions that might move bacteria toward the urethra.