A hospitalized client has an indwelling urinary catheter placed after surgery. Which nursing action best reduces catheter-associated urinary tract infection risk?
1Keep the drainage bag above the bladder while walking.
2Irrigate the catheter every 2 hours without an order.
3Disconnect the drainage tubing each shift to check flow.
4Assess daily whether the catheter is still needed.✓ Correct answer
Explanation
Daily assessment of catheter necessity supports prompt removal and reduces catheter days, a major CAUTI prevention strategy. The drainage system should remain closed, and the bag should stay below bladder level. Routine irrigation without indication increases risk.