Urinary Tract Infection Management

There are several preventative measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of patients developing a UTI:

• Drink plenty of fluids to keep well-hydrated
• Urinate as needed and empty the bladder entirely
• Keep urethra and perineal area clean and free of stool bacteria

Preventative measures when a catheter is in use include:

• Insert catheters in a clean environment
• Apply and manage condom catheters appropriately to minimize skin breakdown and ensure unobstructed drainage
• Disinfect and dry condom catheter leg bags prior to use
• 用间歇导管与chronic indwelling catheter, where clinically appropriate

Diagnosis of a UTI is done through tests and procedures, including:

• Urine analysis – providing a clean catch urine sample for lab analysis that screens for white blood cells, red blood cells and bacteria
• Urine culture – growing urinary tract bacteria in a lab that identifies the bacteria causing the UTI

Other testing for frequent infection includes:

• Bladder scan – ultrasound of the structures of the urinary tract
• CT or MRI – image of the urinary tract to determine abnormalities
• Cystoscopy – scope that allow the physician to visualize internally the urethra and bladder

A UTI can be treated, and symptoms minimized, through any appropriate combination of the following:

• Staying hydrated
• Practicing good hygiene to minimize further contamination
• Use of antibiotics. The type, dose and length of treatment depend on the type of bacteria causing the infection and the patient’s medical history
• Be sure to advise patient of adverse side effects, including nausea and vomiting