CNA Certification (Written Exam)Infection Control and SafetyMedium
A nurse aide is about to assist a resident with a urinary catheter. Which of the following is the most important action to prevent a catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI)?
- AEmptying the drainage bag every 12 hours.
- BSecuring the catheter tubing to the resident's thigh.
- CEnsuring the drainage bag is kept below the level of the bladder.
- DCleaning the perineal area with soap and water daily.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Ensuring the drainage bag is kept below the level of the bladder.
Keeping the drainage bag below the level of the bladder is crucial to prevent the backflow of urine into the bladder, which can introduce bacteria and lead to a CAUTI. This maintains a closed, gravity-dependent drainage system.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While important for monitoring output, emptying frequency is secondary to maintaining gravity drainage for infection prevention.
- B. Securing the tubing prevents traction and urethral irritation, but doesn't directly prevent backflow of urine.
- D. Daily perineal care is important for hygiene, but the primary mechanism for preventing CAUTI is keeping the drainage system closed and gravity-dependent.
CAUTI Prevention: Drainage Bag
Actions taken to prevent catheter-associated urinary tract infections, particularly concerning the urinary drainage bag.
- Keep drainage bag below bladder level.
- Do not allow drainage bag to touch the floor.
- Empty bag regularly to prevent overfilling.
- Maintain a closed drainage system.
Memory trick: Gravity is your best friend to keep the bladder clean and dry.