What step should be taken if a patient exhibits signs of a urinary tract infection?

When a patient exhibits signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI), notifying a healthcare provider is crucial. This step is essential because UTIs can lead to more severe health issues if left untreated, including kidney infections or sepsis. By involving a healthcare provider, appropriate diagnostic and treatment strategies can be initiated, such as prescribing antibiotics or further evaluating the patient’s condition.

While monitoring diet and encouraging increased hydration can contribute to the patient's overall health during a UTI or aid in recovery, they are not sufficient responses on their own. Allowing symptoms to resolve independently could lead to worsening of the infection or complications, making timely notification to a healthcare provider the most responsible and effective course of action in managing a suspected UTI.