Introduction: The incidence of urinary tract infections was compared in two geriatric units, where patients were offered cranberry juice and the usual mixed berry juice, respectively.
Methods: In all cases where urinary tract infection was suspected, the doctors noted symptoms and signs used as indication for urinary culture. The urine collected from men was the usual mid-flow specimen, whereas the specimens from women were taken from a bedpan and by catheter. End points were the prevalence of symptoms leading to urine culture, specimens with significant growth of bacteria, and the use of antibiotics.
Results: Urine specimens were cultured in 140/338 cases. The reason for culture in 23% was general symptoms and in 62% urinary tract symptoms. A significant growth of bacteria was found in 54% and this information led to antibiotic treatment in 44%. In all cases (n = 55) where bedpan and catheter specimens were taken, the results were identical.
Conclusion: Cranberry juice in a geriatric department, where the mean stay was 4 weeks, did not influence the incidence of urinary tract infections.