Assess symptoms: burning with urination, frequent urination, urgency, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, lower abdominal pain
Check for fever, chills, flank pain, nausea, or vomiting
Review risk factors: pregnancy, diabetes, urinary tract abnormalities, recent catheter use, kidney stones, recurrent UTIs
Perform a urine dipstick test for leukocyte esterase and nitrites
Examine urine under a microscope for white blood cells, bacteria, and red blood cells
Send a urine culture and sensitivity test to identify the bacteria and guide antibiotic choice
Consider a urinalysis to look for signs of infection and inflammation
In recurrent, complicated, or severe cases, order blood tests if needed
Use imaging studies if obstruction, stones, abscess, or structural problems are suspected
Evaluate for sexually transmitted infections if symptoms overlap or urine tests are negative
Seek urgent medical evaluation if there is high fever, flank pain, vomiting, pregnancy, or symptoms in a child, older adult, or immunocompromised person