Prevent UTI with the BladderScan^®, Realize Cost Savings

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) acquired in a hospital are a serious problem. They lengthen hospital stays and can create dangerous complications for acute care and post-operative patients. UTIs in extended care or skilled nursing facilities are an even greater problem, because patients in long-term care are more vulnerable to infection. In addition to the threat they pose to patient health, UTIs are extremely costly for hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Here are a few eye-opening facts about the cost of nosocomial (hospital-acquired) infections:

• The average cost of one nosocomial UTI is estimated to be between $680 and $1,875 per patient infection.

• The cost of UTI nationwide ranges from $150 million to $1.8 billion every year.

• 40 percent of all nosocomial infections occur in the urinary tract. Of these infections, 80 percent are caused by urinary tract catheterization and instrumentation.

Hospital-Acquired UTI can be Prevented

Minimizing catheterization is the key to reducing the rate of urinary tract infection. But, how can this be accomplished? Catheterization is often performed unnecessarily, because caregivers do not know how much urine is in a patient's bladder. BladderScan^® use prevents unnecessary catheterization by enabling caregivers to measure patients' bladder volumes noninvasively so they can determine whether or not catheterization is truly necessary. Using the BladderScan^®, you won't catheterize unless you need to. The BladderScan^® reduces the cost of care because it:

• Prevents unnecessary catheterization

• Saves on staff time and the cost of catheter kits

• Reduces the need for medication to treat infection caused by catheters

• Reduces the risk of complications from nosocomial UTI, which can include septicemia, bacteriuria, post-operative wound infection, and renal disease and may lead to premature death

The BladderScan^® saves more than the money spent on UTI. It preserves patient dignity by reducing the need for an invasive and uncomfortable procedure. Patients are relieved to avoid catheterization, and nurses are equally relieved to avoid performing it. The BladderScan^® improves the quality of life for both patients and caregivers.

BladderScan® Bladder Volume Instrument Cost Justification

Read abstracts of clinical studies to find out more. To hear what other health care providers say about the BladderScan^®, view the success stories of clinicians who use it every day.