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Recommended Citation
Herbert S. From Knowledge to Prevention: How a Targeted Tip Sheet Slashed CAUTI Rates. Quality Improvement podium presentation at Transforming Practice: The Intersection of Technology and Nursing Excellence; Advocate Health Nursing Research and Professional Development Conference 2025; November 12, 2025; Virtual.
Presentation Notes
Quality Improvement podium presentation at Transforming Practice: The Intersection of Technology and Nursing Excellence; Advocate Health Nursing Research and Professional Development Conference 2025; November 12, 2025; Virtual.
Abstract
Background:
Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) remain among the most prevalent hospital-acquired infections, with considerable implications for both patient outcomes and healthcare costs. Despite established prevention guidelines, variability in adherence across clinical units often results in inconsistent outcomes. At a academic medical center, CAUTI rates continued to exceed national benchmarks, indicating potential gaps in staff knowledge or inconsistent implementation of best practices.
Local Problem:
Between December 2022 and September 2023, the facility recorded 10 CAUTI cases. An internal review highlighted discrepancies in protocol adherence and knowledge levels among staff across units. In response, a targeted intervention was deemed necessary to close these knowledge gaps and enhance compliance with CAUTI prevention protocols.
Methods:
A Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), in collaboration with the Clinical Practice and Safety Council (CPSC), developed a 10-question knowledge assessment to identify prevalent knowledge gaps. CPSC members distributed the assessment among unit staff, and the results informed the development of customized, unit-specific tip sheets. This targeted the most frequently missed topics and were shared during huddles, unit meetings, and shift reports. The intervention was implemented across the in-patient units, with CPSC members facilitating dissemination. CAUTI rates were tracked before and after implementation, and cost savings were evaluated.
Results/Conclusions:
Following implementation, CAUTI cases decreased from 10 to 3 between October 2023 and July 2024, representing an 80% reduction. The facility also achieved its standardized infection ratio (SIR) target from March to June 2024. The intervention led to a calculated cost avoidance of $334,851.80. No negative consequences were reported.
Implications for Practice:
This initiative demonstrates the effectiveness of targeted, unit-specific education in improving infection prevention practices. The tip sheet approach is both scalable and sustainable, with potential for replication across other metrics and settings to address similar practice gaps.
Document Type
Oral/Podium Presentation
Publication Date
11-12-2025
From Knowledge to Prevention: How a Targeted Tip Sheet Slashed CAUTI Rates
Background:
Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) remain among the most prevalent hospital-acquired infections, with considerable implications for both patient outcomes and healthcare costs. Despite established prevention guidelines, variability in adherence across clinical units often results in inconsistent outcomes. At a academic medical center, CAUTI rates continued to exceed national benchmarks, indicating potential gaps in staff knowledge or inconsistent implementation of best practices.
Local Problem:
Between December 2022 and September 2023, the facility recorded 10 CAUTI cases. An internal review highlighted discrepancies in protocol adherence and knowledge levels among staff across units. In response, a targeted intervention was deemed necessary to close these knowledge gaps and enhance compliance with CAUTI prevention protocols.
Methods:
A Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), in collaboration with the Clinical Practice and Safety Council (CPSC), developed a 10-question knowledge assessment to identify prevalent knowledge gaps. CPSC members distributed the assessment among unit staff, and the results informed the development of customized, unit-specific tip sheets. This targeted the most frequently missed topics and were shared during huddles, unit meetings, and shift reports. The intervention was implemented across the in-patient units, with CPSC members facilitating dissemination. CAUTI rates were tracked before and after implementation, and cost savings were evaluated.
Results/Conclusions:
Following implementation, CAUTI cases decreased from 10 to 3 between October 2023 and July 2024, representing an 80% reduction. The facility also achieved its standardized infection ratio (SIR) target from March to June 2024. The intervention led to a calculated cost avoidance of $334,851.80. No negative consequences were reported.
Implications for Practice:
This initiative demonstrates the effectiveness of targeted, unit-specific education in improving infection prevention practices. The tip sheet approach is both scalable and sustainable, with potential for replication across other metrics and settings to address similar practice gaps.
Affiliations
Illinois Masonic Medical Center