PCH’s orthopedic nursing unit outperforms 90% of U.S. hospitals
Princeton, W.Va. – WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital (PCH) announced that its orthopedic nursing unit achieved outstanding performance in reducing Foley catheter use, surpassing national benchmarks set by the National Healthcare Safety Network.
During the second quarter of 2025, the orthopedic unit maintained a Foley utilization rate consistently below the national benchmark of 0.11 for specialty nursing units, placing it in the top 10% of hospitals nationwide.
“This accomplishment by our orthopedic nursing team reflects the very best of PCH,” said PCH President and CEO Karen Bowling. “Achieving performance in the top 10 percent of hospitals nationwide demonstrates clinical excellence and a deep commitment to patient safety. We are incredibly proud of our staff for leading the nation in this critical quality measure.”
Reducing Foley catheter use is a critical safety initiative, as it directly lowers the risk of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs). Nationally, CAUTIs cause an estimated 8,000 to 13,000 patient deaths each year. By keeping utilization rates low, the orthopedics unit is protecting patients from harm and demonstrating excellence in quality care.
“Surpassing the national benchmarks for three consecutive months is a great accomplishment,” said Helena Griffith, orthopedic nurse supervisor. “The team worked really hard to achieve this.”
Patients on the orthopedic unit are recovering from knee and hip replacements, or other surgeries related to bone injuries and fractures. PCH is the only hospital in Southern West Virginia recognized as a Blue Distinction Center by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield for knee and hip replacement.
About WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital
WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital is leading healthcare in the two Virginias. With 420 physicians and mid-level providers, PCH operates a fully accredited 203-bed acute care medical facility, a 64-bed psychiatric hospital, and an emergency room and outpatient services facility in Bluefield. PCH operates six primary care clinics, 10 specialty clinics, and three rural imaging clinics offering a wide range of care to a 10-county region.
WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital is leading healthcare in the two Virginias. With 420 physicians and mid-level providers, PCH operates a fully accredited 203-bed acute care medical facility, a 64-bed psychiatric hospital, and an emergency room and outpatient services facility in Bluefield. PCH operates six primary care clinics, 10 specialty clinics, and three rural imaging clinics offering a wide range of care to a 10-county region.
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