Sensitivity of Nitrofurantoin to E. Coli in Urinary Tract Infection

Abstract

Background: Uncomplicated urinary tract infection is one of the most common indications for antibiotic use in the community. However, the Gram-negative organisms that can cause the infection are becoming more resistant to antibiotics. Our aim is to determine sensitivity of nitrofurantoin to E. Coli in patients with urinary tract infection.

Materials and Methods: The study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital of District Peshawar, i.e. Hayatabad Medical Complex (HMC). The survey was conducted as a descriptive cross-sectional study using open Epi calculator, keeping confidence interval of 95%, sample size calculated was 90. Urine samples were collected in sterile containers and was sent to laboratory for routine examination, culture and sensitivity (C/S). A colony 10⁵ or more was considered E Coli growth. Nitrofurantoin was used to check the sensitivity for organisms as per operational definition.

Results: E coli was found in 51(56.6%) of patients out of total 90 patients. Patient showing positive UTI C/S resulted in 38 (74.5%) sensitivity to Nitrofurantoin.

Conclusion: Nitrofurantoin is still a good option in cases of UTI with most E. Coli C/S isolates showing sensitivity but emergence of high prevalence of drug-resistant urinary tract pathogens, suggests cautious use of antibiotic therapy for UTI treatment.