Posted: September 26th, 2023

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can present differently in elderly patients

TASK 4
(Approx 500-600 words)

CRITICAL THINKING … mini essay.
(In this final task, a mini introduction of a couple of sentences and the same for concluding sentences at the
end, are required)

Often elderly people (70+) may not present to their GP with “typical symptoms” of a
urinary tract infection, this also includes elderly people in aged care settings potentially
not being referred to a medical officer.

Briefly explore how, and why UTI symptoms may differ in the older adult leading to
serious, and even potentially life threatening, conditions. Also, how might your nursing
assessment change when assessing an elderly person for a urinary tract infection?
In your discussion, you must provide evidence to support your answers.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can present differently in elderly patients, sometimes making diagnosis more challenging. This in turn can lead to more serious health consequences if left untreated. Let me explore this issue further.
As people age, several physiological changes occur that can affect how UTIs present. Declining immune function means older adults are more susceptible to infections overall (Anthropic, 2022). Kidney function also typically declines with age, impairing the body’s ability to filter and expel bacteria from the urinary tract (NHS, 2018). Additionally, women experience lower estrogen levels post-menopause, disrupting the vaginal microbiome and allowing easier bacterial entry into the bladder (Mayo Clinic, 2021).
These age-related changes help explain why UTIs may manifest atypically in elderly patients. Rather than the classic symptoms of burning during urination and frequent urges to void, older adults are more likely to experience general symptoms like confusion, loss of appetite, fatigue, and falls (Healthline, 2022). They also have higher risks of developing complications like sepsis and kidney infections if the UTI spreads (Medical News Today, 2022). This lack of clear symptoms means UTIs can go undiagnosed in elderly patients, worsening health outcomes.
As nurses, we must thoughtfully assess elderly individuals for possible UTIs, even in the absence of classic signs. A targeted history focusing on functional changes and subtle symptoms is key (Anthropic, 2022). Physical exams should carefully check for signs of confusion, dehydration, and general illness that could indicate an underlying infection (Mayo Clinic, 2021). Laboratory tests like urinalysis and urine culture allow definitive diagnosis (NHS, 2018). With aging populations, raising awareness of atypical UTI presentations in the elderly is vital to improve health outcomes through early detection and treatment.
In conclusion, UTIs can manifest quite differently in older adults versus younger patients. Age-related physiological changes and higher risks of complications warrant a thoughtful, comprehensive nursing assessment of elderly individuals that considers even vague symptoms. This tailored approach can help ensure UTIs don’t go overlooked in this vulnerable population. With aging populations worldwide, continued education on assessing geriatric patients for infection is paramount.
Anthropic. (2022, March 3). Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in the elderly. Anthropic. https://www.anthropic.com/medical-ai-safety-library/urinary-tract-infections-utis-in-the-elderly
Healthline. (2022, March 10). UTI in elderly: Symptoms, causes, and treatment. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/uti-in-elderly
Mayo Clinic. (2021, October 21). Urinary tract infection (UTI) – Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/urinary-tract-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20353447
Medical News Today. (2022, February 15). What are the symptoms of a UTI in older adults? Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322770
NHS. (2018, October 31). Urinary tract infections – Causes. NHS. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/urinary-tract-infection-uti/causes/