2015 Poster Session Winner - 2nd Place

Title:  Urinary Tract Infections in the Very Old, To Treat or Not to Treat?

Summary:  Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most commonly treated infections among nursing home residents. Many geriatric patients are also likely to suffer from asymptomatic bacteremia (ASB). While previous research has shown the benefits and harms of treatment with antibiotics in UTIs and ASB, research has not been specific to the very old population, patients > 80 years of age. This study will examine positive urine cultures within the last 2 quarters of 2014 in a skilled nursing facility. Our hypothesis is that antibiotics are frequently used inappropriately in the elderly based on symptoms not associated with UTI such as altered mental status.

The facility’s Infection Control Committee provided a copy of all positive urine culture results for the study period. A retrospective chart review was conducted for all subjects meeting inclusion criteria. Subjects were be divided into 2 groups - those treated with an antibiotic and those not given an antibiotic. The medication administration record was used to evaluate antibiotic use and progress notes by nursing and providers for any documented signs and symptoms of UTI. Outcomes measures include recurrent infections, hospitalizations and death within the 6-month study period. Statistical analysis includes descriptive statistics, as well as but not limited to student t-test, ANOVA, and chi square calculations.

Click here to view the poster:  Urinary Tract Infections in the Very Old, To Treat or Not to Treat?

Names and Affiliations: Ani Ekizian, PharmD Candidate 2015*; Rick Smith, MD^; Nallini Gnanadesigan, MD^; Bob Shmaeff, RPh, MS^; Janice Hoffman, PharmD, CGP, FASCP*; *Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA  ^ Los Angeles Jewish Home for the Aging, Reseda, CA