Test Results
Urinalysis: Presence of bacteria, nitrites, RBC, and WBC.
Urine culture and sensitivity: Identifies microorganism that causes the
infection and the antibiotic that kills the microorganism.
Complete blood count: Elevated WBC (leukocytosis).
Treatment
Administer antibiotics to treat infection:
- Nitrofurantoin
- Ciprofloxacin
- Levofloxacin
- Ofloxacin
- Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole
- Ampicillin
- Amoxicillin
Administer antipyretics for fever.
Administer fluids for dehydration due to vomiting and diarrhea.
Administer phenazopyridine for relief of dysuria symptoms.
Repeat urine culture after completion of antibiotic course.
Nursing Intervention
Monitor vital signs.
Monitor intake and output.
Assess for side effects of medication.
Teach patient that phenazopyridine will cause orange-colored urine.
Urinary Tract Infection
What Went Wrong?
Urinary tract infection occurs when a microorganism, typically a gram-nega-
tive bacteria such as E. coli,enters the urinary tract. The microorganism is
present in the genital area and enters through the urethral opening or during
sexual contact. A nosocomial urinary tract infection can also develop in
patients who have a urinary catheter in place or who have undergone proce-
dures such as a cystoscopy where an instrument is placed in the urinary tract.
Nursing alertUrinary tract infections must be treated immediately to prevent
pyelonephritis.
Signs and Symptoms
Dysuria due to irritation of mucosal lining
Feeling of fullness in suprapubic area
Low back pain
(^270) Pediatric Nursing Demystified