Implementation of a multi-modal intervention adopting new technologies, clinical services, and feedback improves catheter-associated urinary tract infections.

OBJECTIVES

Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI) are a significant cause of morbidity and financial burden to healthcare systems. The aim of this study was to develop and implement a program designed to reduce Foley catheter use days and associated CAUTI rates.

METHODS

A retrospective evaluation of a multi-modal program aimed toward reducing Foley catheter use days and associated CAUTI rates across the Indiana University Health (IUH) system was conducted. IUH is comprised of 16 hospitals and 2,703 available beds. The program included the adoption of new technologies with evidence-based clinical training materials based on change management and feedback from clinicians. National Healthcare Safety Network Standardized Infection Ratio (SIR), Standardized Utilization Ratio (SUR), and Incidence Density Ratio (IDR) rates were assessed.

RESULTS

Implementation of the multi-modal program resulted in a significant reduction in SIR, SUR, and IDR in the post-implementation compared to the baseline periods.

CONCLUSIONS

Through CAUTI bundle workflow assessments, education, and interventions designed to standardize practice variation, the program was successfully implemented and resulted in a significant decrease in Foley Catheter use days, and associated CAUTI rates.