Diagnosis and management of urinary tract infection in children

Poole, Catherine RGN, RSCN, MSc, PgDip (Education)

Catherine Poole RGN, RSCN, MSc, PgDip (Education), is Lecturer Practitioner, University of Central England, Edgbaston, Birmingham.

Date of acceptance: May 2 2002.

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Nursing Standard 16(38):p 47-55, June 5, 2002.

Summary

Urinary tract infection (UTI) causes significant illness, particularly in the first two years of life, and has the potential to cause permanent renal damage. Diagnosis of UTI in children is dependent on the collection of an uncontaminated freshly voided urine sample, which is key to the future management and follow-up of these patients. Prevention of possible long-term renal damage remains a priority.