Effect of Continuing Education on Reduction of Urinary Tract Infection

Eight years ago, the American Journal of Infection Control defined a long-term care (LTC) facility as an establishment that provides professional, licensed care to a population that cannot manage independently in the community setting (Smith et al., 2008). Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the second most frequently diagnosed infection in the LTC setting, and the most common cause of hospitalization for patients with a bacterial infection (Genao & Buhr, 2012). The senior services administrator of this care center revealed data that showed the facility's UTI rate as significantly higher than the state and national averages. Continuing education was not available for primary care nurses or certified nursing assistants (CNAs) with regards to urinary tract infection. The purpose of this project was to implement a comprehensive, evidence-based training and continuing education program for the prevention of UTI in a LTC facility.;This project used a correlational design to determine if the intervention of staff education would result in an increased knowledge of UTI, eventually reducing the incidence of the infection. Data evaluation included assessments in the form of quizzes and demonstration or verbalization of cares. Statistical analysis included a narrative summary, percentage of staff in attendance, and mean assessment scores. Despite reports of improved nursing home care, the accuracy of information reported is of increasing concern to regulatory agencies such as the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services [CMS] (Center for Medicare Advocacy [CMA], 2014). This quality improvement project was meant to address specific problems in this care facility, paying specific attention to the staff's knowledge of UTI and standards of care to prevent the infection.