Bundle (ABCDE) Checklist for Prevention of CAUTIs

Adherence to infection control principles, standard supplies, procedures and processes

  • Hand hygiene - the most important factor in preventing nosocomial infections
  • Aseptic catheter insertion procedure
  • Proper Foley catheter maintenance, education, and care by nursing staff
  • Foley catheter use surveillance and feedback


Bladder ultrasound use protocol in place to avoid unnecessary catheterizations


Catheter alternatives

  • Intermittent (“in and out”) catheterization for incomplete bladder emptying
  • External condom catheter for men with urinary incontinence
  • Absorbent pads and products for men and women with urinary incontinence


Do not use the Foley catheter unless medically appropriate; know appropriate indications


Early removal of the catheter using a reminder or nurse-initiated (i.e., automatic “stop orders”); removal protocol appears warranted


© 2011 Diane K Newman; Adapted from Saint et al. (2009). Translating health care-associated urinary tract infection prevention research into practice via the bladder bundle. Jt Comm J Qual Patient Saf. 35(9), 449-55. Meddings et al., (2019). A Tiered approach for preventing Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infection. Ann Intern Med. Oct 1;171(7_Suppl):S30-S37 © UroToday CAUTI. http://www.urotoday.com



Written by: Diane K. Newman, DNP, ANP-BC, FAAN