Healthcare-Associated Infections: CAUTI and VAP
Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections (CAUTI) and Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP) are major healthcare-associated infections. Preventing them is critical for patient safety.
| Infection Type |
Key Prevention Strategies |
| CAUTI |
- Insert catheters only for appropriate indications.
- Maintain aseptic technique during insertion.
- Maintain a closed drainage system.
- Perform daily assessments of catheter necessity for prompt removal.
|
| VAP |
- Elevate the head of the bed to 30–45 degrees.
- Perform daily “sedation vacations” to assess readiness to extubate.
- Provide daily oral care with chlorhexidine.
- Maintain proper cuff pressure and subglottic suctioning.
|
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