Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections, (or CAUTIs) are the most common type of nosocomial (or healthcare-associated) infections. They account for over 1 million cases annually, or approximately 40% of all infections in hospitals and nursing homes.
To improve the quality of care delivered to our patients, a team at Flushing Hospital Medical Center took steps to address this important issue and the results have been nothing short of outstanding. As of Wednesday, February 2nd, the hospital announced that it has been an entire year without a single CAUTI case, which is a milestone that is being celebrated across the institution.
This achievement is the result of the hard work and diligence of many including Flushing Hospital’s nursing department, physician champions, and infection preventionists. To safeguard against CAUTIs, the hospital incorporated a series of Best Practices, including holding “Time Outs” and utilizing checklists to ensure the appropriate insertion and maintenance of urinary catheters.
To celebrate, Flushing Hospital nursing leadership rounded on each unit to personally thank the team for their efforts and deliver trays of cookies. The hospital also shared this accomplishment with the community on its social media platforms so everyone could know that we are delivering the highest quality care to our patients.
Congratulations to all involved.
