An Implementation Guide to Reducing Overtreatment of Asymptomatic Bacteriuria

JAMA Intern Med. 2018 Feb 1;178(2):271-276. doi: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2017.7290.

Abstract

Treatment of asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) frequently lacks appropriate indication, yet remains prevalent across settings. Numerous guidelines, professional societies, and campaigns such as Choosing Wisely advocate against this low-value practice. Efforts aimed at reducing unnecessary treatment of ASB demonstrate improved costs, and avoidable harm without increased risk of adverse events. We propose an evidence-based implementation guide to aid practitioners in reducing inappropriate treatment of ASB.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Asymptomatic Diseases
  • Bacteriuria / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Inappropriate Prescribing / prevention & control*
  • Medical Overuse / prevention & control*
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic*
  • Practice Patterns, Physicians'*

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents