Pielęgnacja dziecka z zakażeniem układu moczowego

*Agata Szalast, Paulina Dudzic

Summary
Urinary tract infection is a broad term encompassing numerous medical conditions that are caused by penetration of microbes into sterile urinary tracts. This is a common problem in paediatrics but because of the wide spectrum of symptoms it is often diagnosed quite late. An early and accurate diagnosis often depends on the competence of the primary care physician, who is the first to make a general and bacteriological test of the urine. The imaging diagnostics (ultrasonography, X-ray, urography, voiding cystourethrogram) allow one to exclude congenital disorders and lesions within the urinary system.
The treatment of the urinary system is a process divided into two periods: the primary treatment, followed by maintenance treatment to prevent complications and decrease the risk of disease recurrence.
Prevention is a very important element in the therapeutic-curative process because it decreases the risk of reinfection. That is why each child who has experienced an episode of urinary tract infection (UTI) should undergo for 5 years periodic check-ups (general and bacteriological urine test). This requires the close cooperation of parents/carers, who must be precisely informed about the consequences of a negligently treated disease.
Prevention comprises:
– maintaining hygiene in the area of the urinary meatus,
– intake of an adequate quantity of liquids,
– development of a habit of regular urination,
– acidification of urine,
– prevention of constipation,
– avoiding swimming pools.
The role of a nurse in the diagnostic and treatment process is of key significance. She/he has the task of preparing the patient for an examination and accompanying him/her during its performance. In practice the nurse not only provides care within the scope of the doctor’s orders but also satisfies all biopsychosocial needs of the ill child and the educational needs of the parents.

To jest tylko fragment artykułu. Aby przeczytać całość, przejdź do Czytelni medycznej.