Urinary Tract Infection: Finding an Answer When Conventional Testing Is Not
Children who present with urinary tract infections (UTIs) and a fever, and who had negative radioloogical tests for vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), are often tested further with a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG). If the VCUG is negative, health care providers and parents become frustrated, as the search for a definitive diagnosis becomes more elusive. If conventional tests do not provide the expected diagnosis of VUR, it is essential for nurses and other health care providers to be aware of alternative methods for further evaluation.

The following case examines a patient from the author's practice. Children who present with urinary tract infections (UTIs) along with a fever, and who have had negative radiological tests for vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), are referred to the urology department for evaluation and treatment. When children present with UTIs and fever, the work-up generally involves a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) to evaluate VUR. When the VCUG is negative, it is frustrating for parents and health care providers who are in search of a definitive diagnosis.