Which factor is most likely linked to urinary tract infection in hospitalized patients?

• A. Adequate hydration
• B. Indwelling urinary catheter
• C. Early ambulation
• D. Regular bathing

Answer: (B)

The factor most linked to urinary tract infection in hospitalized patients is the use of an indwelling urinary catheter. An indwelling catheter creates a direct pathway for bacteria from the outside world into the bladder and provides a surface where bacteria can cling and form biofilms. Once bacteria colonize the catheter, they can ascend into the bladder and persist in a protected biofilm where antibiotics are less effective, making infection more likely. The risk increases the longer the catheter remains in place, which is why avoiding unnecessary catheterization and removing it as soon as possible are key prevention strategies. Hydration, early ambulation, and regular bathing help overall health and infection prevention, but they do not carry the same strong, direct link to causing catheter-associated UTIs as having a catheter does.