The prevention of urinary tract infections in aged care residents through the use of cranberry products: a critical analysis of the literature

Abstract

Objective: To provide a critical analysis of evidence describing the implementation and effectiveness of cranberry products for the prevention of urinary tract infections in the setting of residential aged care.

Methods: A critical analysis of the literature.

Results: The current evidence indicates that cranberry products decrease the occurrence of urinary tract infections in aged care residents who are likely to benefit from the use of cranberry products as a preventative measure; however, some of the results were limited and contradictory, because of gaps and insufficient research in relation to the active ingredients of cranberries – proanthocyanins.

Conclusion: This critical analysis demonstrates benefits in the use of cranberry products in the prevention of urinary tract infections for residents of aged care facilities. Further research and education on preventative measures could potentially lower the use of antibiotics and the incidence of urinary tract infections in residential aged care.

Keywords:

• aged care residents
• cranberry
• urinary tract infection
• Australia