Reflecting upon my time as a nursing student, I observed the widespread use of Foley catheters across various healthcare settings. Regardless of the facility, there was a persistent emphasis on the importance of preventing catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI).

According to Werneburg, G. T. (2022), CAUTI is the most prevalent healthcare-associated infection and a leading cause of secondary bloodstream infections. Rigorous adherence to best practice guidelines and protocols is pivotal in mitigating the risks associated with Foley catheter usage.

Urinary catheters serve as a conduit from the external environment to the bladder, facilitating urine passage but also allowing rectal and periurethral microbes to ascend and potentially cause infection (Werneburg, G. T., 2022). The unfortunate reality I observed as a nursing student involved patients enduring prolonged periods in their soiled briefs, a situation exacerbated by the challenges nurses face, particularly during understaffed times. Providing fundamental care, such as maintaining hygiene for patients unable to do so themselves, remains an indispensable nursing intervention.

To reduce the risk of CAUTI, minimizing indwelling catheter use and timely removal, especially before antibiotic therapy, takes precedence. Nurses bear the responsibility of evaluating when removal is appropriate. Aseptic catheter insertion techniques and stringent hand hygiene practices are paramount in catheter management, with the proper positioning of drainage bags aiding in reducing the risk of bacteriuria (Werneburg, G. T., 2022). These practices stand as just a few tools in a nurse's arsenal.

As I embark on my journey as a new grad Registered Nurse, I carry with me a heightened awareness of the detrimental impact of CAUTI. Witnessing patients' conditions deteriorate due to this nosocomial infection underscores the critical importance of vigilance and consistent implementation of infection prevention measures. In conclusion, maintaining an unwavering commitment to best practices is not just a professional duty but a profound responsibility to ensure the well-being of those entrusted to our care.

Reference:

Werneburg, G. T. (2022). Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections: Current Challenges and Future Prospects. Research and Reports in Urology, 14, 109-133. https://doi.org/10.2147/RRU.S273663

Author: Amanda Nicole Enriquez Hong

McMaster University BScN Graduate