Reducing Healthcare Associated Infections

Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections (CAUTI)

Urinary Tract Infections cover any infection found in the urinary system be it in the urethra, bladder, ureters, or the kidneys. The urinary tract sees the most healthcare-assoicated infections at 30%. Of those urinary tract infections 80% are caused by the urinary catheter. Because 15 to 20% of patients that enter health care facilities receive a urinary catheter the chance for such infections is high. By limiting the amount of time that the patient is using the urinary catheter you can prevent a urinary tract infection of this kind. The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services is looking at urinary catheters and the related urinary tract infection and developing an effective plan to combat the problem in New Jersey. By understanding the risks of using a urinary catheter and learning how to effectively reduce urinary tract infections, you can better care for your patients and to keep them healthy.

For more information follow the link provided

http://1.usa.gov/1036kbp

Written by Brandon Kassof