Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections in Adults: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common healthcare-associated infections, and 70%-80% are catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs). About 25% of hospitalized patients have an indwelling urinary catheter placed during their hospital stay, and therefore, are at risk for CAUTIs which have been associated with worse patient outcomes. Additionally, hospitals face a significant financial impact since the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services incentive program penalizes hospitals with higher than expected CAUTIs. Hospitalists care for many patients with indwelling urinary catheters and should be aware of and engage in processes that reduce the rate of CAUTIs. This article will discuss the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of CAUTIs in adults.
© 2019 Society of Hospital Medicine
CONCLUSIONS
CAUTI is one of the most common types of HAI and is associated with increased morbidity, hospital length of stay, and patient costs. Most CAUTIs are preventable by limiting the placement of unnecessary catheters to instances of true necessity and removing catheters when they are no longer clinically indicated. Proper technique for the insertion and maintenance of catheters is also important for reducing CAUTI rates. Hospitalists care for a substantial number of inpatients and can make major contributions to the appropriate diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of CAUTIs.
