From the Guidelines
Non-pharmacological interventions such as adequate hydration, frequent and complete emptying of the bladder, warm compresses, avoiding bladder irritants, good perineal hygiene, regular physical activity, constipation management, and double voiding techniques are recommended for a 71-year-old male with a UTI. These interventions are crucial in preventing bacterial colonization, reducing symptoms, and improving overall circulation and bladder function 1.
Key Interventions
- Adequate hydration with 6-8 glasses of water daily to dilute urine and increase urination frequency
- Frequent and complete emptying of the bladder to prevent bacterial colonization
- Warm compresses to provide symptomatic relief by reducing pelvic floor muscle spasms and improving blood flow to the area
- Avoiding bladder irritants like caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and artificial sweeteners to prevent exacerbation of urinary symptoms and inflammation
- Good perineal hygiene to prevent bacterial migration from the rectal area to the urinary tract
- Regular physical activity to improve overall circulation and bladder function
- Constipation management to prevent pressure on the bladder and impair complete emptying
- Double voiding techniques to ensure complete bladder emptying, which is often compromised in older men due to prostatic enlargement
Importance of Follow-up
Regular follow-up appointments are essential for early detection of recurrent infections or complications, particularly important in this age group where UTIs can have more serious consequences 1. The European Association of Urology guidelines on urological infections emphasize the importance of a thorough medical history and physical examination for patients with urological infections, as well as the role of antimicrobial stewardship to combat the rising threat of antimicrobial resistance 1.
From the Research
Non-Pharmacological Interventions for UTI in a 71-year-old Male
- Increased fluids intake to help flush out bacteria from the urinary tract 2
- Cranberry products intake to prevent recurrent infections 2
- Methenamine hippurate to prevent recurrent infections 2
- Avoidance of indwelling urethral catheters, and regular review of their continued use if inserted 3, 4
- Removal of indwelling catheters if the reason for insertion is no longer valid, such as incontinence 4
- Urological assessment to identify and address any underlying anatomical or functional abnormalities 5
General Recommendations
- Urine culture and susceptibility testing should be reserved for cases with recurrent infection, treatment failure, history of resistant isolates, or atypical presentation 2
- Local guidelines should be followed for antibiotic prescribing, taking into account local resistance patterns and available agents 3, 4
- Asymptomatic bacteriuria should not be treated 3, 4, 6