Healthcare associated infections are a major cause of poor outcomes for patients. Approximately 20% of healthcare associated infections are urinary tract infections, with 80% being catheter associated. Catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) results in increased patient morbidity and mortality. Complications associated with CAUTI include cystitis, pyelonephritis, bacteraemia, and, in males, prostatitis, epididymitis and orchitis. Less common complications include endocarditis, osteomyelitis, septic arthritis and meningitis.
Prevention of CAUTI is a high priority patient safety issue covered under the National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards, Preventing and Controlling Infections Standard.
It is a SA Health requirement that SA Health healthcare facilities are compliant with the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (ACSQHC) National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) Standards. This includes the safe insertion and management of invasive medical devices.
Risk of CAUTI is associated with the insertion process and duration of catheterisation, patient susceptibility to CAUTI and quality of catheter care.
Further information regarding best practice guidelines is available via the links below:
It is a requirement of the National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) Standards that health service organisations maintain systems to partner with consumers. Partnering with consumers recognises the importance of involving patients in their own care and providing clear communication to minimise risks of harm.
For further information on prevention of catheter-associated urinary tract infection contact the SA Health’s Infection Control Service on (08) 7425 7161.
