In Your Hands Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections

Targeted prevention measures and process hygiene in veterinary medicine

Prevention of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI)

The aim of all hygiene measures is to reduce nosocomial infections and protect employees from occupational infections. In order to keep the infection rate as low as possible, you should consider and optimize the entire process and develop bundle strategies.

Indication

Strict medical indication and limitation of the number of days with catheterization appear to be the most effective prevention.

Catheter placement: First, hygienic hand disinfection (e.g., SoftaMan® pure) should be carried out and low-germ examination gloves (e.g., Vasco Nitrile sky-blue) should be worn. If necessary, shorten the hair in the area and aseptically prepare the entire area around the vulva/penis as well as the vulva and penis themselves with mucosal disinfectants based on iodine or polyhexanide (e.g., Braunol®, ProntoVet®). The contact time must be observed. The catheter should be sterile and inserted under aseptic cautery. Hand disinfection (e.g., SoftaMan ® pure) as well as the wearing of sterile gloves (e.g., Vasco® OP Grip) are absolutely necessary.

Drainage systems: Closed drainage systems with a backflow preventer (e.g., Urimed® B'Bags) and a drain valve should be used. In case of prolonged use or regular bacteriological examinations, drainage systems that meet the requirements for hygienic sampling (e.g., Urimed® SP; Ureofix® 112 Plus) should be used. Any sagging of hoses and lines should be avoided. ^[1] The drainage system should always be emptied before urine comes into contact with the backflow preventer.

Connection/Disconnection: Wherever possible, do not disconnect the urinary catheter and the drainage system. If it should nevertheless be necessary, the connection site must be disinfected with alcoholic agents (e.g., Softasept® N) before disconnecting and reconnecting. ^[1]

Care: Hygienic hand disinfection (e.g., SoftaMan® pure) must be carried out ahead of every manipulation.
The genital area should be cleaned daily with a suitable antiseptic.

_{[1] KRINKO Prävention und Kontrolle Katheter-assoziierter Harnwegsinfektion, April 2015.}