Treatment of Kidney Infection

If a kidney infection has been identified

Monitor for pain or discomfort

Collect urine sample for lab testing

Check vital observations every 4 hours

The application of heat to the tummy, back, or side may relieve symptoms

Administer medications as prescribed including analgesia or antispasmodics

To promote renal blood flow and flush bacteria from the urinary tract, encourage the resident to drink plenty of fluids

Whenever possible, encourage the resident to empty their bladder completely to reduce the bacterial count in the urine, reduce urinary stasis, and prevent reinfections

Avoid urinary irritants, such as tea, coffee, soft drinks, and alcohol

Treatment

Urine may contain bacteria without necessarily having an infection. According to data, approximately 50% of older people with an indwelling catheter have bacteria in their urine without exhibiting any symptoms. The bacteria that cause kidney infections can be treated with antibiotics.