Urine Polymerase Chain Reaction Testing: Understanding the Latest Evidence and Navigating Pitfalls

Only available as part of a package

Session Summary: This panel discussion will focus on the currently available literature and data regarding urine polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing in the context of a resident case. The audience will learn about the current literature and evidence gaps surrounding the role of this testing in both diagnostic and antibiotic stewardship. Data related to the current landscape of urine PCR ordering practices in the United States will also be reviewed and evidence-based conclusions for this testing will be shared. Audience members will be given the opportunity to ask questions of this expert panel and poll questions will be utilized to engage throughout the presentation.


Learning Objectives:

  • Summarize the literature currently available regarding urine polymerase chain reaction tests
  • Describe the current landscape of urine polymerase chain reaction ordering practices throughout the United States using claims data
  • List the drawbacks of this testing method in post-acute and long-term care antibiotic stewardship programs

Jessica Zering, PharmD, BCIDP, BCPS, CAPM

Antimicrobial Stewardship Pharmacist

Washington State Department of Health

Jessica Zering serves as the antimicrobial stewardship pharmacist at the Washington State Department of Health, bringing over a decade of experience across various roles and settings. She is dual board certified in infectious diseases & pharmacotherapy. Currently, Dr. Zering co-hosts an antimicrobial stewardship collaborative for skilled nursing facilities across Washington State and serves as vice president for WA-PALTC. Additionally, she is a member of the Infection Advisory Subcommittee for PALTC.

Kelly Hatfield, DrPH

Epidemiologist

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Kelly M. Hatfield, DrPH, MSPH is an epidemiologist and team lead in the Office of Prevention Research and Evaluation in the Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion at CDC. She leads several innovative research and surveillance projects related to the understanding and preventing antimicrobial resistance and healthcare-associated infections in various healthcare settings, including nursing homes.

Sing T. Palat, MD, CMD

Sing T. Palat, MD, CMD, is a medical director for Optum Senior Community Care. She works with advance practice clinicians in long-term care settings and precepts medical students, residents and fellows. Dr. Palat is the President of the Colorado chapter of PALTmed and a House of Delegates Representative to the PALTmed Board.

Laurent Adler, MD, CMD

Laurent Adler, MD, CMD is a Senior Medical Director for Optum’s ISNP Nursing Home Plan in Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi.  He is responsible for quality care by serving as a resource to field-based clinicians, drives critical thinking at the senior leadership team level and coordinates solutions to clinical challenges.  He is vice-president of the Georgia chapter of AMDA.

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