Decreasing Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections in Urologic Oncology Patients Discharged With an Indwelling Urinary Catheter: A Quality Improvement Project

Abstract

Few strategies exist regarding decreasing catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) in the outpatient urologic oncologypopulation discharged with an indwelling urinary catheter (IUC). A quality improvement methodology using a premeasurement-postmeasurement structure was used to study the impact of process interventions on reducing CAUTIs. Creation of IUC outpatient materials, an "IUC Removal Form," and bundling IUC supplies were translated to an outpatient and perioperative setting to reduce CAUTIs. The CAUTI rate in urologic surgical patients requiring an IUC at discharge decreased from 12.5% to 8%. Preoperative IUC education increased from 0% to 100%. The average number of days the IUC was present was unchanged. The average postanesthesia care unit length of stay decreased from 1.98 to 1.32hours, saving the organization $11,880.00. IUC removal appointments at discharge increased from 4% to 33% (P=.0146). Implementation of consistent patient education and improved process for IUC removal reduced CAUTIs in this population.