ASID (HICSIG)/AICA Position Statement: Preventing catherter-associated urinary tract infections in patients

Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) occur frequently in healthcare settings. The insertion and maintenance of indwelling urinary catheters is a routine element of healthcare. In order to prevent CAUTI, it is important that healthcare professionals providing catheter care understand the indications for catheter use and the correct procedure for insertion and maintenance of catheters. This paper reviews and summarises three recent key publications on the prevention of CAUTIs and proposes the use of a care bundle and checklist for catheter indications, insertion and maintenance, and quality improvement. © 2011 Australian Infection Control Association.