Assessment of Nurses' Knowledge and Practices Related to Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Swat

Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) account for a substantial proportion of hospital-acquired infections, leading to increased patient morbidity, mortality, and healthcare expenditures worldwide. These infections, typically resulting from the use of indwelling urinary catheters, are largely preventable with adherence to proper infection control practices. This cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the knowledge and practices of nurses regarding CAUTI prevention in a tertiary care hospital in Swat, Pakistan. A structured questionnaire was administered to 120 registered nurses to evaluate their understanding and routine practices related to catheter care and infection prevention. The findings revealed that 61.6% of the participants demonstrated average knowledge, while only 23.3% exhibited adequate knowledge regarding CAUTI prevention. Key areas of deficiency included awareness of evidence-based guidelines, proper catheter insertion techniques, and maintenance protocols. In addition, the study explored the relationship between sociodemographic variables and the level of knowledge and practices. Factors such as age, gender, education level, and years of clinical experience were statistically analyzed for their influence on nurses' knowledge and practice scores. The results indicate a critical need for structured educational programs and training sessions aimed at improving nurses’ competencies in catheter management. Institutional support, availability of guidelines, and continuous professional development are recommended to reinforce best practices and minimize the risk of CAUTIs. By addressing these gaps, healthcare facilities can enhance patient safety, reduce the incidence of infections, and improve overall clinical outcomes. This study underscores the importance of equipping nurses with the necessary knowledge and tools to implement effective CAUTI prevention strategies in daily practice.