Version July 2025
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What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").
What should I know? —
You came to the ED for a urinary tract infection, or "UTI." A UTI can affect:
●The bladder (lower urinary tract) – This is called "cystitis."
●The kidneys (upper urinary tract) – This is called "pyelonephritis." A kidney infection is more serious, and can lead to other serious problems if it is not treated properly.
UTIs, including kidney infections, are treated with antibiotics. It is important to take all of your antibiotics even if you start to feel better.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also:
●Call your regular doctor and tell them you were in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment if you were told to.
●Take all of your medicines as instructed.
•For the first day or so, you might want to take an over-the-counter medicine, like phenazopyridine (sample brand name: AZO Urinary Pain Relief). This helps numb your bladder. You will also not have the strong urge to urinate. This medicine causes your urine and tears to look orange. If you have kidney disease, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
•Take acetaminophen (sample brand name: Tylenol) if needed for pain.
●To lower your chance of getting a UTI in the future:
•Drink extra fluids.
•If you have sex, urinate right after.
•If you use birth control, use a form that does not contain spermicide.
When should I get emergency help?
●Return to the ED if you:
•Have very bad pain in your back, shoulder, or belly
•Have a fever of 102.2°F (39°C), shaking chills, or sweats even though you are taking antibiotics
•Are vomiting and cannot keep the antibiotics or fluids down
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if:
●You have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or chills.
●You see more blood in your urine.
●Your symptoms get worse or do not improve within 24 hours of starting treatment.
●You cannot urinate for more than 8 hours
●Your symptoms come back after finishing treatment.
●You have new or worsening symptoms.
Patient education: Urinary tract infections in adults (The Basics)
Patient education: Urinary tract infections in pregnancy (The Basics)
Patient education: Urinary tract infections in adults (Beyond the Basics)
