Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a major public health concern in the United States, affecting millions of people each year. UTIs occur when pathogens, particularly bacteria, enter the urinary system and lead to inflammation and infection. They can involve the kidneys, bladder, ureters, or urethra and affect people of all ages. Illness can range from a mild, uncomplicated infection to life-threatening sepsis. When we talk about UTI prevention in senior living, there are plenty of reasons to pay attention.

According to the CDC’s clinical overview of urinary tract infections, UTIs are more common in women of any age, pregnant people, and older men. Other groups at increased risk include people with diabetes and those who use urinary catheters. Certain conditions, including kidney stones, vesicoureteral reflux, and bladder control issues, can also increase risk.

Any of these “risk” factors present in your community? I’m guessing the answer is yes!

In fact, did you know that UTIs account for approximately 2.7 million emergency department visits each year? An estimated 400,000 hospitalizations are also attributed to UTIs annually. Those are some pretty big numbers for something we see so frequently.

In severe cases, a UTI can lead to sepsis of urinary origin, or urosepsis, which requires immediate medical attention. The CDC reports that genitourinary tract infections account for 16% to 37% of adult sepsis hospitalizations. Adults age 65 and older are among those at increased risk for urosepsis.

That aside, recurrent infections or chronic symptoms can also take a toll on quality of life. The stress and anxiety associated with these conditions may contribute to frustration or depression for some individuals.

So, what can we do? It may be a good time to talk with your infection preventionist, pharmacy, and laboratory service provider. Discuss proactive approaches to UTI prevention in senior living. Consider staff education on appropriate peri-care, hydration, and toileting routines for residents with incontinence. In addition, review the continued need for indwelling urinary catheters and other resident-specific risk factors.

Take some time to review your current practices and identify opportunities for improvement. Preventing a UTI for even one resident may mean one less transfer to the emergency department. More importantly, it may mean a more comfortable resident and a happier family. That sounds like a good reason to take another look at what we are doing!

Stay well and stay informed!