Glossary term
CAUTI
Catheter-associated urinary tract infection, a hospital-acquired infection risk after surgery.
Updated 2026-03-301 alias2 sourcesUsed across articles and safety pages
Definition
CAUTI (Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infection) is a urinary tract infection that develops while a urinary catheter is in place or shortly after removal. In limb lengthening, a catheter may be placed during surgery under general or spinal anesthesia. The risk increases with the duration of catheter use. Prompt removal after surgery (ideally within 24 hours) is the primary prevention measure.
Aliases
catheter-associated urinary tract infection
Updated 2026-03-30
Sources
- Catheter-associated Urinary Tract Infection Basics (CDC)official_publicAccessed 2026-05-25
- CAUTI Prevention Guideline (CDC)official_publicAccessed 2026-05-25
Informational only. Not medical advice.