Bladder infection labs question..

Published

Specializes in Geriatrics, Med-Surg..

If a 60 year old female is diagnosed with a bladder infection and is put on antibiotics, would any further labs be drawn such as pottasium, sodium, chloride, Uric acid and creatinine. Is the Dr. looking for a kidney infection or actual renal damage. Thanks in advance.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I have never had a doc order further labs just due to a bladder infection. Does not mean it may not happen though. Did you have one order some or was you just wondering if they would?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Geriatrics, Med-Surg..

Yes I had a Dr. order these tests for my mother after she was dx with a bladder infection. She also mentioned to me that a few months ago, her albumin came back a bit high. So I am wondering if he is looking for renal disease and perhaps she either doesn't know this (unlikely) or hasn't told me yet. I guess I just wonder what he could be looking for.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Geriatrics, Med-Surg..

Sorry fultzymom, just a correction on the albumin. I don't think it was too high just a bit low, I think. Anyways I can never get a straight answer from her at the best of times.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Could be watching for renal failure. Those tests could indicate it depending on the results. Best thing to do is just ask him why he would be watching those labs.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Sorry fultzymom, just a correction on the albumin. I don't think it was too high just a bit low, I think. Anyways I can never get a straight answer from her at the best of times.

OOPS! I posted my reply right when you were posting this I guess. You got in first. I hate it when docs are not straight forward about what they are looking for. If it were me, I would say point blank, "What are you watching for?" I believe that patients have the right to know about what docs are concerned might be going on. And when it is me, I always want to know what they are thinking. Don't quit asking until you get the answer you are looking for (the truth).

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Geriatrics, Med-Surg..

Thank for the advice. I agree 100%. I too ask my Dr. about any tests that I or my family has and why they are being done. I do find it frustrating dealing with her at times. Anyhow, thanks again, you have helped a lot.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion