The definition of CAUTI falls into two groups:
CAUTI includes those infections in which a patient had an indwelling urinary catheter at the time or within 48 hours before onset of the event. There is no minimum period of time that the catheter must be in place in order for the UTI to be considered catheter-associated.
CAUTI is the most common type of healthcare-associated infection, accounting for nearly 36% of infections reported by acute care hospitals.
CAUTI has been associated with increased morbidity, mortality, hospital cost, and length of stay.
An estimated 17% to 69% of CAUTI may be preventable with recommended infection control measures.
The IDPH and healthcare professionals across Iowa plan to work together to prevent or reduce CAUTI in Iowa hospitals. This partnership will guide hospitals in steps to prevent or reduce CAUTI in their patients.
For more information on HAI's:
