Inappropriate testing for urinary tract infection in hospitalized patients: an opportunity for improvement

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. 2013 Nov;34(11):1204-7. doi: 10.1086/673449. Epub 2013 Sep 23.

Abstract

Urine cultures are frequently obtained for hospitalized patients. We reviewed documented indications for culture and compared these with professional society guidelines. Lack of documentation and important clinical scenarios (before orthopedic procedures and when the patient has altered mental status without a urinary catheter) are highlighted as areas of use outside of current guidelines.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Diagnostic Tests, Routine / standards*
  • Diagnostic Tests, Routine / statistics & numerical data
  • Female
  • Guideline Adherence*
  • Hospitalization
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Medical Audit
  • Middle Aged
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic
  • Quality Improvement
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Unnecessary Procedures / statistics & numerical data*
  • Urinalysis / standards*
  • Urinalysis / statistics & numerical data
  • Urinary Tract Infections / diagnosis*
  • Urine / microbiology
  • Young Adult