Despite hefty financial penalties, rates of catheter associated urinary tract infection, or CAUTI, are still on the rise. The CDC’s Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee (HICPAC) estimates that around 9,000 CAUTI related deaths could be prevented annually. View our infographic below for helpful information on the cost, prevalence and prevention of these types of infections.
Some Fast Facts About CAUTI
- It is the most commonly reported hospital acquired infection
- Is thought to add 90,000 more hospital days per year in the United States
- It causes increased patient discomfort and mortality.
- Approximately 50% of patients with an indwelling catheter do not meet the CDC indications to have one.
- The Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) in 2011 reported that 40% of physicians were not aware that their patients had an indwelling catheter.
Prevention of CAUTI
The infographic below contains a list of measures for prevention of CAUTI, including:
- Consider alternatives to Foley catheters such as external catheters, intermittent catheters, or bladder training
- Check that the patient meets the CDC indications to have an indwelling catheter placed
- Place only if necessary and remove as soon as possible
- Select the smallest possible french size
- Secure catheter so it does not move and check for kinks
Enlarge the infographic below for more information on the cost, prevalence and prevention of Catheter Associated Urinary Tract Infections.
[Click image to view larger in new tab. Magnify by clicking again]
For more information, see related articles and indwelling catheter resources here:
- Appropriate and Inappropriate Use of Indwelling Urethral Catheterization (IUC)
- How to Insert and Secure an Indwelling Urinary Catheter
- Video & Slides: Troubleshooting Issues with Catheters Webinar
- Preventing Catheter Associated UTIs (CAUTI) Webinar Video/Slides
- How to Empty, Clean and Change Your Leg Bag or Drainage Bag
