A Multi-Modal Intervention to Improve Identification, Management, and Prevention of Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections in the Urgent Care Clinic

Author

Stephanie Krol, Valparaiso University

Date of Award

5-7-2025

Degree Type

Evidence-Based Project Report

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Department

Nursing

First Advisor

Christina Cavinder

Abstract

Nearly 60% of women will suffer from a urinary tract infection (UTI) in their lifetime, with 20- 40% of them suffering from multiple (Anger et al., 2022). The primary purpose of this evidence-based project was to implement a multi-modal intervention to improve identification of women who suffer from recurrent urinary tract infections (rUTIs) and to assist in the prevention and treatment of future UTIs. Additionally, the project aimed to increase the number of referrals to urology for better management of these patients. This project was implemented at an Urgent Care Clinic (UCC) in northwest Indiana. Eligible participants who presented with UTI symptoms were provided questions A1-3 from the Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection Symptom Scale (RUTISS) to determine if they suffer from rUTIs. This determined the need for urology referral. After urinalysis (UA) showed signs of a UTI, participants were prescribed antibiotic treatment according to current best standards of practice. Additionally, they received education on behavior modifications and the use of cranberry and D-mannose supplements. Participants were called following a 3- and 6- week period to determine if they developed a rUTI, if they had followed up with urology, and if they followed the multi-modal interventions discussed during their visit. Data was collected and a Fisher’s exact test, p-value (p=1.000; Fisher's exact test), and number needed to treat (NNT), showed that this project was not statistically significant, and the interventions were not very effective in preventing rUTIs (NNT=116). Patient in the treatment group had 1.0 times the risk of a rUTI in 6 weeks. Findings from this project can guide future research and development of guidelines for management of rUTIs.

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Recommended Citation

Krol, Stephanie, "A Multi-Modal Intervention to Improve Identification, Management, and Prevention of Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections in the Urgent Care Clinic" (2025). Evidence-Based Practice Project Reports. 214.
https://scholar.valpo.edu/ebpr/214