What does urinary urgency indicate?

Urinary urgency indicates the immediate need to void, which is characterized by a strong, often sudden desire to urinate that can be difficult to postpone. This feeling may arise due to various reasons, including bladder irritation, infection, or overactive bladder conditions. Understanding this concept is crucial for healthcare workers, particularly when assessing patients’ urinary habits and potential underlying issues.

The other choices represent different aspects of urinary function that don't relate directly to the term 'urgency.' For instance, the inability to urinate for extended periods suggests retention rather than an urgent need to void. Delayed urination, when necessary, implies a situation where one can hold off urination, which contradicts the concept of urgency. Lastly, frequent but small volumes of urine indicates potential issues like overactive bladder or urinary frequency without the immediate overwhelming need, differing from the definition of urgency itself.