# Urine polymerase chain reaction tests: stewardship helper or hinderance?

## TL;DR

This paper discusses the role of urine PCR tests in diagnosing UTIs in long-term care and their impact on antimicrobial stewardship.

## Contribution

The paper reviews existing literature and offers recommendations for using urine PCR tests in antimicrobial stewardship.

## Key findings

- Urine PCR tests are promoted as rapid diagnostic tools for urinary tract infections in long-term care.
- There is limited evidence on the impact of urine PCR tests on antimicrobial stewardship programs.

## Abstract

Urine polymerase chain reaction is a laboratory test promoted to healthcare professionals working in long-term care facilities as a rapid diagnostic platform for urinary tract infection. Little is known about the place of this testing and its potential impact on antimicrobial stewardship programs. In this commentary, we review the currently available literature and provide recommendations for long-term care stewardship programs to consider.