Knowledge and Practice Discordance in Treating Urinary Tract Infections

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common condition in women. Guidelines have been published on the diagnosis and management of such infections with the twin goals of improved patient safety and avoiding unnecessary health care costs. In this study we evaluated both physicians’ knowledge of these guidelines, and whether that knowledge translates to their clinical practice. Methods: We performed a retrospective chart review of UTI management before and after an educational intervention in a family medicine residency. Two control sites were also included. We also assessed physicians’ knowledge of current UTI management guidelines using an anonymous quiz. Results: At the intervention site, guideline adherence improved following the educational session. Inappropriate culture use decreased from 88% to 68% (P