Q: What is ABCDE or bladder bundle  to decrease "Catheter Associated Urinary Tract Infections" (CAUTI)?

Answer:

“Bladder Bundle” is implemented by the Michigan Health and Hospital Association (MHA) Keystone Center for Patient Safety & Quality, called “ABCDE” approach

• Adherence to general infection control principles is important (e.g., hand hygiene, surveillance and feedback, aseptic insertion, proper maintenance, education).
• Bladder ultrasound may avoid indwelling catheterization.
• Condom catheters or other alternatives to an indwelling catheter such as intermittent catheterization should be considered in appropriate patients.
• Do not use the indwelling catheter unless you must!
• Early removal of the catheter using a reminder or nurse-initiated removal protocol appears warranted.

Reference:

Saint S, Olmsted RN, Fakih MG, et al. Translating health care-associated urinary tract infection prevention research into practice via the bladder bundle. Jt Comm J Qual Patient Saf. 2009;35(9):449–55