Strategies for CAUTI prevention: Are we on the same page?

Abstract

To the Editor: Catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) creates a huge and often preventable burden for the healthcare system. In Australia, CAUTI accounts for 30% of healthcare-associated infections [1,2], leading to increased healthcare costs, length of stay, and patient morbidity [1]. As the estimated cost to the healthcare system of one CAUTI is approximately US$7,6703, CAUTI costs the Australian healthcare system millions of dollars each year. Preventing CAUTI is a high priority patient safety issue included under Standard 3 of the National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards [4]. Healthcare-associated urinary tract infections, of which CAUTI represent a large proportion, also form part of the Australian hospital-acquired complication data set [5]. In order to reduce expenditure and improve patient outcomes, healthcare facilities are required to measure healthcare-associated infections (HAI), including CAUTI, and implement strategies targeting HAI risk factors.