Treatment of pyelonephritis in an observation unit.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the feasibility of managing patients with acute pyelonephritis as outpatients after initial treatment with IV antibiotics in an emergency department observation unit.


METHODS
Prospective and uncontrolled.


METHODS
ED observation unit.


METHODS
Nonpregnant female patients 14 years old or older without immunocompromise or serious underlying disease and no evidence of septic shock.


METHODS
All patients received two IV doses of trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole at a 12-hour dosing interval and promethazine and acetaminophen as needed for nausea and fever, respectively. Baseline laboratory data, urinalysis, and urine and blood cultures were obtained.


RESULTS
Patients were observed for signs of septic shock, nausea, vomiting, and the ability to tolerate an oral intake. At the end of the observation period, 43 of 44 patients were discharged on oral trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. One additional patient who was doing well clinically was recalled and admitted because of a positive blood culture.


CONCLUSIONS
Patients with acute pyelonephritis, despite significant fever or nausea and vomiting, can be treated effectively as outpatients after a brief period of observation and IV antibiotics.
Ward
G
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Division of Emergency Medicine, University of Mississippi, Jackson.
Jorden
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RC
Severance
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HW
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000553:Ambulatory Care / Q000592:standards*; D003663:Decision Trees; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007275:Injections, Intravenous; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011704:Pyelonephritis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D015662:Trimethoprim, Sulfamethoxazole Drug Combination / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D015662:Trimethoprim, Sulfamethoxazole Drug Combination