What does pyuria indicate?

Pyuria indicates the presence of pus in the urine, which is often a sign of an infection in the urinary tract. This condition typically occurs due to the body’s response to a bacterial infection, where white blood cells, which are part of the immune response, accumulate in the urine. The detection of pus can help healthcare providers diagnose urinary tract infections and other related conditions, prompting appropriate treatment. Understanding this definition is critical for certified nursing assistants as they may encounter patients with symptoms suggesting a possible urinary tract infection and need to report such findings accurately to nursing staff or physicians for further evaluation.