Reviewing Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections (CAUTIs) in Primary and Community Health Care Settings: Using Evidence-Based Practices to Reduce Infection Rates
Noveltte Reid
Co-Presenters: Individual Presentation
College: The College of Health Professions and Human Services
Major: Nursing (MSN)
Faculty Research Mentor: Elsie Rivera
Abstract:
Novlette ReidAbstractTitle: Reviewing Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections (CAUTIs) in Primary and Community Health Care Settings: Using Evidence-Based Practices to Reduce Infection RatesIntroduction: The risk of infection is a constant concern for patients with a catheter. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the safety goals of the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN). The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) do not reimburse hospitals for (UTIs). The morbidity and mortality rates associated with UTIs and CAUTIs in the U.S. are staggering. If left untreated, CAUTI can lead to serious complications such as sepsis and endocarditis. Sepsis kills over 350,000 people annually, with 2.3% (approximately 13,000) of those deaths attributed to UTIs.Therefore, healthcare institutions, clinicians, and nurses must address the issue by striving for effective solutions that will consistently reduce CAUTIs and UTIs. While urinary tract infections are not inherently complex, hospitals, clinicians, and nurses continue to face challenges in reducing the incidence of CAUTI, which remains high.Background: CAUTIs and UTIs are common bacterial infections that can lead to co-morbidities, increased mortality, longer hospital stays, and higher healthcare costs. Many studies suggest that strict adherence to protocols can significantly reduce the occurrence of CAUTIs and UTIs.Objective/Purpose: This review examines the issues related to urinary catheters and their maintenance, to identify solutions to reduce CAUTIs through a review of relevant research articles.Methods: The literature reviewed was sourced from databases such as EBESCO, PubMed, as well as articles from NHSH, and CDC. Peer-reviewed, systematic reviews, and evidence-based practices articles were included. A total of three articles were reviewed.Results: A comprehensive approach, including adherence to CDC-recommended guidelines, standardized protocols, and proposed interventions leads to positive outcomes in preventing CAUTIs.Conclusion: The limitations include a lack of research in primary and community health care. However, comparing acute care with primary care can provide valuable insights for reducing urinary tract infections. Such findings would have important clinical implications, such as reduced hospital stays, lower healthcare costs, improved care quality, and greater patient autonomy through education.Keywords: CAUTI, UTI, HAI, CAI, Community Health Care, Primary Health Care