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Î Use standardized criteria, such as CDC's National Healthcare Safety
Network (NHSN) definitions, to identify patients who have a CAUTI
(numerator data) (III).
Î Collect information on catheter-days and patient-days (denominator
data) and indications for catheter insertion for all patients in the patient
groups or units being monitored (III).
Î Calculate CAUTI rates and/or standardized infection ratio (SIR) for
target populations (III).
Î Use surveillance methods for case finding that are documented to be
valid and appropriate for the institution (III).
Î Consider providing unit-specific feedback (III).
Education and training
Î Educate healthcare personnel (HCP) involved in the insertion, care, and
maintenance of urinary catheters about CAUTI prevention, including
alternatives to indwelling catheters and procedures for catheter
insertion, management, and removal (III).
Î Assess HCP competency in catheter use, catheter care, and
maintenance (III).
Appropriate technique for catheter insertion
Î Insert urinary catheters only when necessary for patient care and leave
in place only as long as indications remain (II).
Î Consider other methods for bladder management, such as intermittent
catheterization, where appropriate (II).
Î Practice hand hygiene (based on CDC or WHO guidelines) immediately
before insertion of the catheter and before and after any manipulation
of the catheter site or apparatus (III).
Î Insert catheters following aseptic technique and using sterile
equipment (III).
Î Use sterile gloves, drape, and sponges; a sterile or antiseptic solution
for cleaning the urethral meatus; and a sterile single-use packet of
lubricant jelly for insertion (III).
Î Use as small a catheter as possible consistent with proper drainage, to
minimize urethral trauma (III).
Management of indwelling catheters
Î Properly secure indwelling catheters after insertion to prevent
movement and urethral traction (III).
