Eunice A., 21

Eunice is a single mother who brought her child for treatment. She separated from her abusive husband and only completed primary school. Her aspiration to become a beauty therapist was cut short when she had to leave school due to financial difficulties. Currently, she is staying with a relative while seeking ways to become financially independent and support herself and her child. Eunice presented with complaints of painful urination, painful intercourse, and a whitish discharge that was not foul-smelling. Laboratory investigations led to a diagnosis of urinary tract infection, with bacterial vaginosis considered as a differential. She was admitted and started on appropriate medication. The patient has been treated three times previously with oral medications for urinary tract infection.

The clinical officer diagnosed Eunice with a Urinary Tract Infection with a urine test. She was then admitted and put on antibiotics as a standard treatment and should be completed as prescribed, even if she starts feeling better. She was advised to be drinking plenty of fluids to help ease symptoms. Pain relief medication was also given to help with easing discomfort. Per vaginal pessaries was also given and taught how and when to use it. She felt better and was discharged home on oral medication. Eunice had to be admitted to get parenteral medication under supervision since this was not the first or the second or the third time she is being treated for urinary tract infection. She was being educated and counselled on the need to keep the general hygiene. Health education on prevention 1. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. 2. Wear loose-fitting clothing. 3. Empty your bladder regularly and completely. 4. Wipe from front to back after using the toilet.

Given Eunice's history of multiple previous treatments for urinary tract infection, this presentation raises concern for a recurrent urinary tract infection. The patient was admitted for closer monitoring and management to ensure adequate response to treatment and to reduce the risk of complications. Appropriate antimicrobial therapy and supportive treatment were initiated. Additional evaluation and counseling were provided to address possible contributing factors and to prevent future recurrence. Eunice’s prognosis is generally favorable with appropriate treatment and adherence to the prescribed medication regimen. With proper management, most urinary tract infections resolve without long-term complications. However, due to her history of repeated infections, continued follow-up is recommended to monitor her recovery and to assess for any underlying factors that may predispose her to recurrent infections.