Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are caused by bacteria—most often, Escherichia coli. However, certain viruses, fungi, and parasites can also lead to infection. The infection can affect the lower and upper urinary tract including the urethra, prostate (in males), bladder, ureter, and kidney. Due to the progression of the disease and human anatomy, symptoms present differently among the sexes, as well as among different age groups. It is important to understand how these factors and others impact the pathophysiology of UTIs. Advanced practice nurses must have this foundation in order to properly diagnose patients.

To prepare:

• Review Chapter 29 in the Huether and McCance text and Chapter 32 of the Poole Arcangelo and Peterson text. Identify the pathophysiology of lower urinary tract and upper urinary tract infections. Consider the similarities and differences between the two types of infections.
• Consider one type of drug that would be used to treat symptoms associated with urinary tract infections.
• Consider gender and one of the following patient factors: genetics, ethnicity, age, or behavior. Consider how gender and the factor you selected might impact the pathophysiology of the urinary tract infections. Then, reflect on how these factors might impact the effects of prescribed drugs, as well as any measures you might take to help reduce any negative side effects.

Questions to be addressed in my paper:

1. A description of the pathophysiology of lower urinary tract and upper urinary tract infections, including their similarities and differences.
2. Then, describe one type of drug that would be prescribed to treat symptoms associated with urinary tract infections.
3. Explain how gender and another patient factor might impact the pathophysiology of the urinary tract infections and the effects of prescribed drugs.
4. Explain measures you might take to help reduce any negative side effects.
5. Summary with Conclusion

REMINDERS:

1)      2-3 pages (addressing the 4 questions above excluding the title page and reference page).

2)      Kindly follow APA format for the citation and references! References should be between the period of 2011 and 2016. Please utilize the references at least three below as much as possible and the rest from yours.

3)     Make headings for each question.

References:

Readings

• Huether, S. E., & McCance, K. L. (2012).Understanding pathophysiology (Laureate custom ed.). St. Louis, MO: Mosby.

o    Chapter 28, “Structure and Function of the Renal and Urologic Systems”

This chapter introduces the structure and function of the renal and urologic systems. It covers renal blood flow, kidney function, and tests for renal and bladder function.

o    Chapter 29, “Alterations of Renal and Urinary Tract Function”

This chapter examines alterations of the renal and urinary tract function, including urinary tract obstruction, urinary tract infection, acute kidney injury, and chronic kidney disease. It focuses on the pathophysiology, clinical manifestation, evaluation, and treatment of those renal and urinary tract alterations.

o    Chapter 30, “Alterations of Renal and Urinary Tract Function in Children”

This chapter presents alterations of renal and urinary tract function that are common in children. These alterations include structural abnormalities, bladder disorders, nephroblastoma, and urinary incontinence.

Poole Arcangelo, V., & Peterson, A. M. (Eds.). (2013). Pharmacotherapeutics for advanced practice: A practical approach (3rd ed.). Ambler, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

o    Chapter 32, “Urinary Tract Infection”

This chapter covers drugs used to treat urinary tract infections. It also identifies special considerations when treating geriatric patients, pediatric patients, and women.

Drugs.com. (2012). Retrieved from www.drugs.com

This website presents a comprehensive review of prescription and over-the-counter drugs including information on common uses and potential side effects. It also provides updates relating to new drugs on the market, support from health professionals, and a drug-drug interactions checker.

Optional Resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Retrieved August 10, 2012, fromhttp://www.cdc.gov
• Haymarket Media, Inc. (2012). Monthly prescribing reference [Online database]. Retrieved fromhttp://www.empr.com/
• Institute for Safe Medication Practices. (2012). Retrieved fromhttp://www.ismp.org/
• Medscape. (2012). Retrieved fromhttp://www.medscape.com/
• National Kidney Foundation. (2012). Retrieved fromhttp://www.kidney.org/index.cfm