For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on MS continuously getting UTIs, and what would be the best response. % of respondents chose the best answer. We want to clarify and share this important information, so you can pass it on to people living with diabetes and your colleagues, plus prepare for exam success!
Before we start though, if you don’t want any spoilers and haven’t tried the question yet, you can answer it below: Answer Question
MS is a 59-year-old with type 2 diabetes who is struggling with frequent urinary tract infections. They are on metformin and empagliflozin, and their A1C is 7.3%. MS has already received several courses of antibiotics.
Which of the following actions would you recommend?
- Drink sugar-free cranberry juice a few times a week.
- Apply topical vaginal estrogen cream.
- Get A1C below 7% by adding basal insulin.
- Evaluate MS for autoimmune conditions.
Getting to the Best Answer
Answer A is incorrect: % chose this answer, “Drink sugar-free cranberry juice a few times a week.” Scientific studies have yielded mixed and inconsistent results regarding the effectiveness of cranberry juice for prevention. MS needs an intervention that will provide ongoing relief.
Answer B is correct: % chose this answer, “Apply topical vaginal estrogen cream.” Vaginal estrogen cream can help prevent recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) in postmenopausal women by restoring the health of vaginal and urinary tissues. Estrogen helps restore a healthy vaginal pH, increases beneficial bacteria, and improves circulation, creating an environment that is less hospitable to uropathogens. It is a non-antibiotic option recommended by medical societies and is associated with a significant reduction in rUTIs.
Answer C is incorrect: % chose this answer, “Get A1C below 7% by adding basal insulin.” Getting A1C to target can reduce risk of infections, but MS A1C is already close to target. They need an effective treatment for their frequent UTI’s.
Answer D is incorrect: % chose this answer, “Evaluate MS for autoimmune conditions.” Frequent UTIs are not usually associated with autoimmune conditions. MS needs an effective treatment for their frequent UTI’s.
We hope you appreciate this week’s rationale! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our Question of the Week and participate in this fun learning activity!
Learn more about HRT and UTIs in our blog “Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) – What You Need to Know”
Learn More From Our Expert
Dr. Jill Schramm, DNP, FNP-C, BC-ADM, CDCES
Level 5 | Hot Flashes & Hyperglycemia
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