A REVIEW OF URINARY TRACT INFECTION IN CATHETERIZED PATIENTS

Resmi Scaria, Mobisha Monachan*, Merlin Babu, Micah Job, Dr. Akhila S. Arjun

ABSTRACT

One of the most common infections in humans is urinary tract infection (UTI) which accounts for more than 150 million cases worldwide. In addition to being the most common bacterial infection, UTIs also contribute 36% of all healthcare-associated infections. Of these 36% infections, 80% of them are estimated to be catheter associated [CAUTI]. The insertion of an indwelling urinary catheter is the most important predisposing factor for the development of CAUTI. The urinary catheter is an essential part of modern medical care and it has been associated with increased morbidity, mortality, hospital cost, and length of stay. The impact of a UTI on the individual can vary greatly, depending on age, comorbidities, and socio-economic circumstances. CAUTIs may lead to unnecessary use of antibiotics and antimicrobial resistance and longer hospital stay. Despite many efforts to reduce the occurrence of CAUTI, there remains a gap in the literature about CAUTI risk factors, especially on the effect of catheter dwell-time on CAUTI development and patient comorbidities. This review briefly focuses on the incidence of UTI in catheterized patients, its risk factors, and the prevention of CAUTI.

Keywords: CAUTI, UTI, HAI, Risk factors, Prevention of CAUTI.