Course description

The care of patients with indwelling urethral catheters is an important nursing responsibility. A urethral catheter is a major risk factor for developing a urinary tract infection (UTI) and the longer the catheter remains in place, the higher the risk of infection (Lo et al 2014). Catheter-associated UTI (CAUTI) is one of the most common types of healthcare-associated infection (HCAI) and has implications for patient safety and the costs of healthcare delivery (Oman et al 2012).

Don't forget that you do not have to complete our two-hour learning modules all in one go. Tailor your learning to fit into your busy schedule by undertaking one or two sections at a time. You can stop and save your learning at any point and pick up where you left off when you return.

Learning aims and intended outcomes

• Explain why UTIs and CAUTIs are common
• List the bacteria most likely to cause UTIs and CAUTIs
• State the indications for urethral catheterisation
• Identify the risk factors for CAUTI and other potential complications of urethral catheterisation
• Describe strategies to prevent CAUTIs and catheter-related complications
• Critically appraise guidelines on preventing CAUTIs and identify any omissions
• Outline the factors that should be considered when determining whether long-term urethral catheterisation is appropriate for a patient