Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or antipyretic drugs
Follow-up urine culture and imaging studies
Severe Symptoms
Hospitalization
Adequate fluid intake (parenteral initially; switch to oral fluids as nausea, vomiting, and dehydration subside)
NSAIDs or antipyretic drugs to reverse fever and relieve discomfort
Follow-up urine culture and imaging studies
Nursing Planning
The overall goals are that the patient with pyelonephritis will have
Normal renal function
Normal body temperature
No complications
Relief of pain
No recurrence of symptoms
Nursing Implementation
Nursing interventions vary depending on the severity of symptoms.
These interventions include teaching the patient about the disease process with emphasis on
Continuing medications as prescribed
Having a follow-up urine culture
Recognizing manifestations of recurrence or relapse
In addition to antibiotic therapy, encourage the patient to drink at least eight glasses of fluid every day, even after the infection has been treated.