Date of Award
Fall 12-22-2018
Degree Type
Final Project
Degree Name
DNP Doctor of Nursing Practice
Department
Nursing
Advisor
Maryellen Roberts, DNP
Committee Member
Theresa Conklin, DNP
Committee Member
Charlene Ruggiero, RN
Abstract
Purpose: This purpose of this project was to implement a quality improvement initiative
focusing on reducing catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) in the surgical setting of Overlook Hospital Medical Center. The project looked at current literature which discussed evidence-based and best practice used in preventing CAUTIs. The literature was presented to nurses and staff in the surgical setting.
Significance: The significance of the project was to initiate quality improvement by teaching
staff evidence-based and best practice in Foley usage and maintenance to reduce the frequency of
CAUTIs.
Methods: This project employed the methodology of Donabedian’s conceptual framework, Watson’s Theory of Caring, and Lewin’s Theory of Change. Interworking models were used to re-educate staff to enact change, emphasize a nurse-driven initiative, and to assess quality with achieving the overall goal of reducing CAUTIs by 50% or greater.
Project Outcomes: The Foley catheterization removal rate increased by 80%. There was an increased awareness of CAUTIs.
Clinical Relevance: Based off of the final results in the surgical setting, the project can be carried out throughout all departments and units at Overlook Hospital Medical Center.
Keywords: catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI), quality improvement
initiative, Foley catheters, best practice, evidence-based practice
Definition of Terms
According to McNeill “CAUTIs, urinary tract infections (UTIs) related to the placement of indwelling urinary catheters, are caused by bacteria . . .” (McNeill, 2017). Foley days refers to the number of days a patient has a Foley catheter inserted. Foley in refers to the insertion of a Foley catheter into a patient. Foley out refers to the removal of a Foley catheter from a patient
Recommended Citation
D'Antonio, Linda, "Quality Improvement Initiative Aimed at Reducing Catheter-associated Infections and Foley Days in the Surgical Setting" (2018). Seton Hall University DNP Final Projects. 30.
https://scholarship.shu.edu/final-projects/30
