How can CNAs help prevent catheter-associated infections in residents with urinary catheters?

How can CNAs help prevent catheter-associated infections in residents with urinary catheters?

• A. Remove the catheter at the first sign of discomfort.
• B. Follow aseptic technique for any needed care under the nurse's guidance, maintain cleanliness, and report issues such as leakage or discomfort.
• C. Replace the catheter daily without a physician order.
• D. Use shared cleansing solutions without consultation.

Answer: (B)

Preventing catheter-associated infections hinges on keeping the catheter area clean and using aseptic technique whenever you handle the drainage system. The best approach for a CNA is to perform any needed care under the nurse's guidance, maintain cleanliness around the catheter, and promptly report leakage, discomfort, or other concerns. This protects the closed drainage system from contamination and allows timely assessment if something seems off, reducing the risk of infection. Removing the catheter at the first sign of discomfort, replacing it daily without an order, or using cleansing solutions without consultation can raise infection risk or cause harm, so they’re not appropriate.

Preventing catheter-associated infections hinges on keeping the catheter area clean and using aseptic technique whenever you handle the drainage system. The best approach for a CNA is to perform any needed care under the nurse's guidance, maintain cleanliness around the catheter, and promptly report leakage, discomfort, or other concerns. This protects the closed drainage system from contamination and allows timely assessment if something seems off, reducing the risk of infection. Removing the catheter at the first sign of discomfort, replacing it daily without an order, or using cleansing solutions without consultation can raise infection risk or cause harm, so they’re not appropriate.