Care Plan for Urinary Tract Infection Management

Category / Primary Body System

• Renal/Urological System

Problem

• Patient is at risk for complications due to Urinary Tract Infection (UTI).

Goal

• Patient’s UTI will resolve within 30 days.

Plan/Approach

1. Antibiotic Therapy

   • Administer antibiotics as ordered to treat the UTI.

2. Fluid Intake

   • Encourage fluids unless contraindicated to help flush out the urinary system and reduce the risk of further infections.

3. Temperature Monitoring

   • Monitor temperature every shift while on antibiotics to detect fever, which could indicate persistence or worsening of the infection.

4. Behavioral Monitoring

   • Monitor for behavioral changes such as confusion or agitation, which can be signs of a UTI, especially in older adults. Notify the MD if any changes are present.

5. Follow-up Testing

   • Follow up urine for urinalysis and culture (UA/C&S) if ordered by the MD to ensure the infection is resolving and to guide further treatment.

Rationale

1. Antibiotic Therapy

   • Antibiotics are essential for treating bacterial UTIs and preventing complications.

2. Fluid Intake

   • Adequate hydration helps to flush bacteria from the urinary tract and supports overall renal health.

3. Temperature Monitoring

   • Regular temperature checks help in early identification of persistent infection or fever, which may require further intervention.

4. Behavioral Monitoring

   • Behavioral changes can be early indicators of systemic infection, especially in the elderly or those with cognitive impairments.

5. Follow-up Testing

   • Follow-up urine tests ensure that the infection is resolving and help in tailoring antibiotic therapy based on culture results.

Actions

1. Antibiotic Therapy

   • Administer prescribed antibiotics as per the dosing schedule. Ensure the patient completes the entire course of antibiotics.

2. Fluid Intake

   • Encourage the patient to drink adequate fluids such as water and non-caffeinated beverages, aiming for 8-10 glasses per day unless contraindicated by their medical condition.

3. Temperature Monitoring

   • Check the patient’s temperature every shift and document the findings. Report any temperatures above 100.4°F (38°C) to the MD.

4. Behavioral Monitoring

   • Observe and document any changes in behavior such as increased confusion, agitation, or lethargy. Report significant changes to the MD promptly.

5. Follow-up Testing

   • Collect urine samples for urinalysis and culture as ordered. Ensure proper collection technique to avoid contamination and provide accurate results.