Best practice guidelines for uncomplicated urinary tract infections to reduce rates of antibiotic resistance: A CE module for clinicians

Abstract

<p>Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) accounted for over 8 million visits to ambulatory clinics. The annual cost of evaluation and treatment for uncomplicated UTIs on the health care system is estimated to be approximately $2.14 billion (Barber, et al., 2013). The improper treatment of patients with uncomplicated UTIs will result in increased healthcare expenditures, increase exposure of patients to potential side effects and an increase in antibiotic resistance. This capstone projected addressed the problem of non-adherence to evidence-based guidelines to treat uncomplicated UTI in women, among primary care providers. The purpose of this capstone project was to develop an evidence-based continuing education (CE) module for the appropriate treatment of uncomplicated UTIs. The CE module includes evidence-based content, which reflects the recommendations of the 2010 ISDA guidelines. </p> <p>The capstone route chosen for this project was an evidence-based comprehensive plan of action for addressing a health care outcome. A review of the literature revealed that a large number of providers and patients are non-compliant with antibiotic use in the treatment of uncomplicated UTIs. The review of literature also supported the need to provide evidence-based education for health care providers as they care for women with uncomplicated UTIs. The concepts of the Adult Learning Theory by Malcolm Knowles were used as a framework to develop the CE module. The expected outcomes of the CE module will include provider use of EB guidelines for clinical decision-making in the treatment of women with uncomplicated UTI.</p> <p> </p>