Which condition is associated with increased risk of urinary tract infections in post-op patients?

Indwelling catheters are significantly associated with an increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in postoperative patients. The presence of a catheter provides a direct pathway for bacteria to enter the urinary tract, leading to colonization and infection. This risk is particularly heightened in the postoperative setting, where patients may have altered immune responses and other comorbidities that predispose them to infections.

In contrast, while lung infections, deep vein thrombosis, and respiratory distress are important postoperative complications, they do not have the same direct association with urinary tract infections. Lung infections primarily affect the respiratory system, deep vein thrombosis relates to vascular issues, and respiratory distress involves complications in breathing. None of these conditions introduce bacteria into the urinary tract as indwelling catheters do, making catheters the primary concern when discussing UTI risks in a postoperative context.