Diagnostic/Treatment Notes / CAUTI

In the presence of a catheter, pyuria or positive urine cultures are not always a reliable indicator of infection. A lack of pyuria suggests no active infection.

≥100,000 colonies is the most specific for true CAUTI

Some experts state ≥1,000 colonies represents significant bacturia; however, if this count is used, there should be a strong clinical suspicion of CAUTI based on symptoms and the absence of infection at another site.

The best way to avoid CAUTI is to avoid the use of a urinary catheter. Consider intermittent straight cath in patients with short-term needs for catheterization.

Catheter should be removed whenever possible.