Development of a point-of-care antibiotic susceptibility test for urinary tract infections
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are very common and cost the NHS hundreds of millions of pounds every year. When treating a UTI, doctors usually prescribe broad-spectrum antibiotics right away. However, it takes several days for a laboratory to identify the exact bacteria and confirm which medicine works best. Using standard antibiotics without knowing the specific bug can cause bacteria to become resistant to treatment over time. Researchers at the University of Reading and Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust are working to solve this. They are developing a portable, quick test to help doctors check for antibiotic resistance within minutes. To build this tool, researchers only need a small amount of the urine sample you already provide during your regular NHS appointment. Joining this study will not affect your treatment, requires no extra clinic visits, and helps protect vital antibiotics for the future.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) happen when bacteria get into your bladder or kidneys, causing pain and discomfort. When you see a healthcare professional with a suspected UTI, they often prescribe general antibiotics straight away to help you feel better quickly. Your urine sample is usually sent away to a laboratory to grow the bacteria and find out which antibiotic works best. However, this process takes one to three days, meaning doctors must make their best educated guess in the meantime.
Giving out broad-spectrum antibiotics before having test results can cause problems. Over time, bacteria can adapt and learn how to survive these common drugs, creating 'superbugs' that are difficult to treat. If the prescribed medicine is not the right match for your specific infection, your symptoms may also take longer to clear up.
To tackle this challenge, scientists are designing a simple, portable test device. The goal is to test a urine sample right where you are being treated and get answers quickly. This will allow your doctor to prescribe the most effective medicine on the spot, helping you recover faster while keeping antibiotics working well for everyone in the future.
Key takeaways
- Researchers are developing a fast, portable test to find the right antibiotic for UTIs within minutes.
- The study uses a small leftover amount of the urine sample you already give during normal care.
- There are no extra appointments, blood tests, or new medications involved.
- Taking part will not change, interrupt, or delay your normal NHS treatment.
- Your contribution helps scientists fight antibiotic resistance and protect future NHS patients.
Who may be eligible?
This study is open to adults aged 18 and older who visit an NHS clinic or hospital with symptoms of a suspected urinary tract infection.
You can take part if your doctor or nurse is already taking a routine urine sample to check your health, and you are well enough to understand what the study involves and give your written consent.
You cannot take part if you are under 18 years old, or if you are feeling too unwell to comfortably talk through the study details and give your permission.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- You are aged 18 or over.
- A doctor or nurse suspects you have a urinary tract infection (UTI).
- You are already providing a urine sample for your normal NHS care.
- You are well enough to understand the study and agree to take part.
What does participation involve?
Taking part in this study is very straightforward and will not take up any extra time. When you provide a routine urine sample for your normal NHS care, the research team will simply take a small leftover portion of that same sample. You will not need to give an extra sample, undergo any medical procedures, or take any new medications.
You will be asked to complete a brief questionnaire or allow researchers to look at your medical records for basic information, such as your age, symptoms, and general health. The study sample is tested in an NHS facility and destroyed safely afterwards. There are no follow-up visits or long-term commitments; once you have handed in your sample and details, your participation is complete.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustCity onlyBasingstoke, England
Common questions
Will taking part delay my medical treatment?
No. Your doctor or nurse will treat your infection exactly as they normally would, without any delay.
Do I need to give an extra urine sample?
No. Researchers will only use a small amount of the sample you are already giving for your routine NHS care.
Will I have to take any experimental medicines?
No. This study only tests the urine sample in a lab to develop a new diagnostic tool. You will not be given any new medications.
What happens to my personal information?
Information about your age, health, and symptoms will be stored securely and kept anonymous so that you cannot be identified.
Do I need to come back for any follow-up appointments?
No. Once your routine sample is collected and your details are recorded, your part in the study is completely finished.
How to find out more
Alexander Edwards
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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