Which practices help prevent catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs)?

• A. Aseptic insertion, proper catheter care, maintaining a closed drainage system, and timely removal when no longer needed.
• B. Daily bathing of the patient with soap.
• C. Prolonged catheter use for convenience.
• D. Frequent catheter changes every 8 hours.

Answer: (A)

Preventing catheter-associated urinary tract infections hinges on interrupting the main ways bacteria reach the bladder and limiting the time a catheter is in place. Aseptic insertion ensures organisms from the skin or environment aren’t introduced at placement. Maintaining a closed drainage system prevents microbes from traveling along the catheter into the bladder. Proper catheter care means keeping the meatal area clean, securing the catheter to reduce movement, and keeping the drainage system closed and below the bladder level to avoid contamination or backflow. Removing the catheter promptly once it’s no longer needed dramatically reduces the duration of exposure and infection risk. Daily bathing helps general hygiene but doesn’t address the infection pathways tied to insertion and maintenance of the catheter, and prolonged use or frequent changes can increase risk by introducing or disseminating bacteria.