Reducing Cather-Associated Urinary Tract Infections

SBH Health System implemented numerous strategies to reduce the number of Cather-Associated Urinary Tract Infections (CAUTIs) and the number of indwelling urinary catheter days. These strategies include:

Standardizing protocols and guidelines;
“Partnership for Patients” initiatives;
Best-practice prevention methods;
Improved communication with stakeholders; and
Collaborative teamwork.

Collectively, this has led to a reduction of CAUTIs by 75 percent from January through September 2016, as compared to 2015 with a Standardized Infection Ratio of less than one. SBH Health System also decreased the number of indwelling urinary catheter days by 47 percent during the same time period. In addition to the clear quality and patient-safety benefits of this initiative, the health system also found a financial benefit as a result of decreasing the use of antibiotics and lab services typically associated with CAUTIs.

This case study is part of the HANYS Triple Aim series highlighting how New York hospitals are improving health, enhancing quality and reducing costs. Hospitals, nursing homes and home care agencies across New York state are pursuing the Triple Aim. In spite of fiscal constraints, its members are embracing the challenge of transforming health care and are implementing new and innovative approaches to delivery.

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