CARE ASSISTANT
DAUrinary Tract Infection (UTI)
The most common bacterial infection of the urinary system.
It occurs when bacteria, most often Escherichia coli from the digestive tract, enter the urethra and multiply in the bladder.
It causes burning when urinating, very frequent urges for small volumes, cloudy and strong-smelling urine, and sometimes lower abdominal cramps.
More Informations
A urinary infection in a particular context, requiring a longer treatment.
Definition
A urinary infection is called complicated when it occurs with a catheter, a stone, an abnormality of the urinary tract or in a frail person. The risk of spreading to the kidney is higher.
Causes
Bacteria colonising an indwelling catheter, incomplete bladder emptying, or an obstruction.
Diagnosis
- Urine culture with antibiotic sensitivity.
- Blood tests and blood cultures in case of fever.
- Ultrasound to look for an obstacle or a stone.
Treatments
A longer antibiotic treatment adapted to the germ, and treatment of the cause: catheter change, treatment of a stone or an obstruction. Medical follow-up is close.
For a bedridden or catheterised person, a urinary infection can come with leaks around the tube. The Mati underpad protects the mattress and makes changes easier; the skin is cleaned and dried every time.
Educational content written for families and caregivers. It does not replace a consultation: a doctor, a continence nurse or a physiotherapist makes the diagnosis and chooses the treatment.