Enhancing the safe and effective use of short-term indwelling urinary catheters in post-operative patients: a best practice implementation project

Objective: This project aimed to promote evidence-based practices regarding the safe and effective use of short-term indwelling urinary catheters in post-operative patients in surgical departments of tertiary hospitals in China. Methods: Guided by the JBI Evidence Implementation Framework, a baseline audit was conducted to identify gaps between best evidence and current practice in different departments. Barriers to evidence implementation were identified, and tailored strategies were implemented. Two follow-up audits were performed to evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions. Results: The baseline audit revealed compliance rates of 0% for criterion 2, 80.6% for criterion 3, 98% for criterion 4, 68.7% for criterion 6, 64% for criterion 8, and 52% for criterion 9, with the remaining three criteria achieving 100% compliance. After implementing strategies, such as providing sterile wipes, introducing catheter fixation devices made with strong adhesive and breathable tape, developing educational videos, conducting targeted staff training, and strengthening communication among health care professionals, compliance rates improved. Following two rounds of follow-up audits, criterion 2 remained at 0%, criterion 6 increased to 96%, and all other criteria reached 100% compliance. Conclusion: This evidence implementation project effectively improved compliance with best practice recommendations for the safe and effective use of short-term indwelling urinary catheters in post-operative patients within surgical departments. Spanish abstract: http://links.lww.com/IJEBH/A611