Does treatment of urinary tract infections reflect the antibiotic stewardship program guidelines?

Protocols are required for antibiotic use for treatment of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in long-term care facilities (LTCFs). This project assessed antibiotic prescribing practices for UTI in three LTCFs to elucidate practice and its relationship to protocols in these settings. A retrospective chart review of UTI cases occurring between February 1, 2017, and July 30, 2017, was conducted to describe provider management in three LTCFs. Sixty-three cases with compelling urinary symptoms potentially suggestive of UTI were included in the review. Urine culture findings indicated that a more than 100,000 CFU/ml colony count was present in 46% (n = 29) of the cases; however, 63.5% (n = 40) of the cases received antibiotics. Eleven cases (17.4%) received antibiotics based on symptoms without UTI diagnosis. Empirical treatment was initiated in 35% (n = 22) of the cases. When urine culture reports were available, previously untreated 28.57% (n = 18) cases received antibiotics for colony counts of >100,000 CFU/ml. Antibiotics were given for colony counts of <100,000 CFU/ml for 17.46% (n = 11) of the cases. Increased urinary frequency or burning on urination (95.23%) and change in behavior (88.9%) were the primary reasons for initiation of urinalysis and urine culture testing. Nurse practitioner implementation of protocols for antibiotic stewardship programs in LTCFs can prevent overprescription for UTI in these facilities.