Catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) is one of the most common types of health care associated infection (HAI). It is estimated that more than 13,000 deaths each year are associated with UTIs. Virtually all healthcare-associated UTIs are caused by instrumentation of the urinary tract and therefore are preventable.
Complications associated with CAUTI cause discomfort to the patient, prolonged hospital stays, and increased cost and mortality. An estimated 17 percent to 69 percent of CAUTI may be preventable with implementation of evidence-based practices.
Following the WSHA Safety Action Bundle strategies can greatly reduce the number of catheter-associated infections. Together, we can make a difference.
Our goal is to reduce the rate of CAUTIs by 20 percent by September 27, 2018.
