Bladder scanning in maternity care: a scoping review
Date
2017
Authors
Lovell, B.
Steen, M.
Esterman, A.
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Journal article
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Evidence Based Midwifery, 2017; 15(2):60-70
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Abstract
The accuracy of bladder scanning appears to be inconclusive, particularly during the childbirth continuum (pregnancy, labour and post birth). Some authors recommend using the bladder scanner in maternity care while others do not. Being catheterised increases the risk of urethral trauma, discomfort, urinary tract infection and negative psychological effects related to this invasive procedure. Some women may be catheterised unnecessarily and adopting the use of bladder scanners may reduce these risks and enable the midwife to use a less invasive measure to facilitate clinical decisions. The aim of this scoping review is to identify research studies previously conducted to investigate the accuracy of bladder scanning during the childbirth continuum and to report the findings. The scoping review was guided by the framework of Arksey and O'Malley (2005). Electronic databases and reference lists were searched to identify published articles. The information was collated into a table to summarise the findings. A total of 10 research articles and one poster presentation were found which incorporated testing the accuracy of bladder scanning on women during labour or post birth. Three studies were unable to demonstrate accurate measurements using a bladder scanner and eight studies concluded that bladder scanners are accurate post birth and one in labour (if the membranes are not intact). The Bladderscan® BVI 3000 was used in 10 of the studies and the Bladderscan® BVI 6100 in one study. There were no studies that involved non-labouring pregnant women. Eight out of 11 studies concluded that bladder scanners are accurate when used in maternity care. Despite these conclusions, there are many factors that can contribute to the inaccuracy of the device, especially during pregnancy and post birth. Further research is required to test current bladder scanners for use in maternity care.
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Copyright 2017 Royal College of Midwives