Question

A facility has identified an increase in health care associated UTIs. A nurse is participating in a quality improvement process to address this problem. Which of the following should be the first step in the process?

Option 1: Implementing a comprehensive staff training program
Option 2: Conducting a thorough review of individual patient cases
Option 3: Reviewing and revising the facility's infection control policies
Option 4: Analyzing the facility's current catheterization protocols

Answer 1

To address the increase in healthcare-associated UTIs, the first action should be to analyze the facility's current catheterization protocols, focusing on practices and adherence to guidelines that prevent infections.

Step-by-step explanation:

The first step in the quality improvement process to address the increase in healthcare-associated urinary tract infections (UTIs) should be to analyze the facility's current catheterization protocols. This initial assessment will involve a comprehensive review of the existing policies, procedures, and practices related to catheter use, maintenance, and removal.

Factors such as the indications for catheter insertion, adherence to aseptic techniques, catheter care, duration of catheterization, and the frequency of catheter-associated UTI cases will be examined. By identifying areas where current protocols may be falling short, the facility can begin to develop targeted interventions aimed at reducing the incidence of catheter-associated UTIs. This proactive stance is critical in healthcare settings to improve patient outcomes and reduce the spread of infections.

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