Final answer:
To diagnose a UTI in an elderly man with bloody urine, a combination of urine culture and sensitivity test, physical examination, CBC, and referral to a urologist if necessary should be considered, along with a urinalysis to assess for leukocyte esterase and nitrites.
Step-by-step explanation:
To diagnose a urinary tract infection (UTI) in an elderly man presenting with bloody urine, several diagnostic steps can be taken. Urine culture and sensitivity test is paramount as it determines the presence of pathogens and their susceptibility to antibiotics. Physical examination may reveal tenderness in the bladder area or other relevant clinical signs. A complete blood count (CBC) can provide information on the patient's immune response and indicate an infection's severity. In complex cases or where there are underlying urological concerns, referral to a urologist may be necessary, particularly for specialized imaging or intervention.
Initial steps would include a urinalysis, with attention to leukocyte esterase and nitrite levels which could reveal an active bacterial infection. If these rapid screening tests are positive, a urine culture is typically followed to confirm a bladder infection by identifying the specific type of bacteria. Moreover, examining a microscopic study of urine can show additional elements such as proteins, pus cells, or red blood cells that may help in diagnosis.