Urinary Tract Infection : Acute Care & Ambulatory Care
- Acute Care
- Adequate fluid intake
- Patient may think condition will worsen because of discomfort
- Dilutes urine, making bladder less irritable
- Flushes out bacteria before they can colonize
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol, citrus juices, chocolate, and highly spiced foods
- Potential bladder irritants
- Application of local heat to suprapubic or lower back may relieve discomfort
- Instruct patient about drug therapy and side effects
- Emphasize taking full course of antibiotics despite disappearance of symptoms
- Second or reduced dosage of a drug may be ordered after initial course in susceptible patients
- Instruct patient to monitor for signs of improvement and decrease in or cessation of symptoms
- Teach patient to promptly report to HCP
- Persistence of LUTS beyond antibiotic treatment course
- Onset of flank pain
- Fever
- Ambulatory Care
- Emphasize importance of compliance with drug regimen
- Maintain adequate fluids
- Regular voiding (every 3 to 4 hours)
- Void after intercourse
