Authors

  1. Fuchs, Mary Ann DNP, RN
  2. Sexton, Daniel J. MD, FACP
  3. Thornlow, Deirdre K. PhD, RN, CPHQ
  4. Champagne, Mary T. PhD, RN, FAAN

Abstract

Catheter-associated urinary tract infections account for 40% of all health care-associated infections. An evidence-based, nurse-driven daily checklist for initiation and continuance of urinary catheters was implemented in 5 adult intensive care units. Measures of compliance, provider satisfaction, and clinical outcomes were recorded. Compliance with the checklist was 50 to 100%: catheter-associated urinary tract infections decreased from 2.88 to 1.46 per 1000 catheter days and catheter days decreased in 2 intensive care units.