Implementing an evidence-based practice protocol for prevention of catheterized associated urinary tract infections in a progressive care unit

Abstract

Catheter associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI) are common, painful, and potentially life threatening to hospital patients. Nurses implemented an evidence-based project to determine if a new protocol would decrease the incidence of CAUTIs. The project included a point prevalence study, healthcare team education and a prompt communicating catheter insertion date, time and removal recommendations. This project was successful as evidenced by post data collection showing CAUTI rate decreases of 1.1/1000 catheter days and a device duration decrease of 0.2 device days/patient days.