[Parents compliance to perform the voiding cystourethrogram test after urinary tract infection]

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Urology
• Radiology

Background:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in children and can lead to renal scarring if not managed promptly.
• Historically, voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) was recommended after UTI to detect abnormalities, but guidelines have evolved.
• Current recommendations suggest VCUG is not always necessary after every UTI, impacting parental decisions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess parental compliance with recommended voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) tests following pediatric hospitalization for urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• To identify factors influencing parents' decisions regarding their child's adherence to post-hospitalization UTI diagnostic procedures.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study was conducted at "Dana" Children's Medical Center.
• Data were collected from hospital records of children hospitalized with UTI between January 2004 and December 2005.
• Parental compliance with VCUG was assessed via telephone interviews.

Main Results:

• Out of 227 children, 179 parents were interviewed (78.85% compliance).
• 52% of parents did not perform the VCUG, citing concerns about radiation exposure, pain, potential urinary tract damage, and lack of information.
• Conversely, 48% proceeded with the VCUG, often due to strong physician recommendations and a desire to stop prophylactic treatment.

Conclusions:

• Parental concerns regarding radiation, pain, and lack of information significantly impact compliance with voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) recommendations after pediatric urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• Clearer, more comprehensive explanations from healthcare providers are crucial to improve parental understanding and adherence to post-discharge UTI management plans.
• Enhancing physician communication can improve patient compliance with recommended diagnostic tests like VCUG, ultimately aiding in preventing potential renal complications.