Abstract

Catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) remains one of the most common healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), posing significant clinical and economic burdens on patients and healthcare systems worldwide. Nurses play a pivotal role in the prevention of CAUTI due to their direct and continuous patient contact and responsibility for urinary catheter insertion, maintenance, and removal. This comprehensive review synthesizes current literature regarding nurses’ knowledge and practice related to CAUTI prevention. Despite the existence of robust evidence-based guidelines, studies frequently report inconsistencies in nurses’ knowledge levels, particularly concerning indications for catheterization, appropriate insertion techniques, and timely removal criteria. Furthermore, observed practice often deviates from recommended protocols, influenced by a myriad of factors including workload, staffing levels, availability of resources, institutional culture, and inadequate continuing education. This paper highlights critical gaps in knowledge and practice, explores contributing barriers and facilitators, and underscores the urgent need for targeted educational interventions, policy reinforcement, and organizational support to enhance nurses’ adherence to CAUTI prevention bundles, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

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