Assessing Postvoid Residual to Identify Risk for Urinary Complications Post Stroke.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Urology
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Urinary dysfunction and tract infections affect approximately 20% of stroke survivors.
• Increased post-void residual (PVR) is a significant risk factor for these urinary complications.
• These issues can impede recovery following stroke hospitalization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the prevalence of elevated PVR in stroke patients.
• To evaluate the utility of bladder scanning in identifying at-risk individuals.
• To promote early detection and management of urinary complications post-stroke.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a bladder scanning protocol on a neuroscience unit for stroke patients.
• Initial bladder scan post-stroke void, with subsequent scans if PVR exceeded 100 mL.
• Utilized a specific algorithm to guide nursing assessments and interventions.

Main Results:

• 53% of 78 scanned stroke patients had PVR volumes greater than 100 mL after the initial void.
• Persistent elevated PVR ( >100 mL) was observed in 22 patients after the second scan and 12 after the third.
• Portable ultrasound bladder scanning proved safe and noninvasive for measuring urinary volumes.

Conclusions:

• Stroke patients frequently exhibit increased PVR, indicating a risk for urinary complications.
• Bladder scanning facilitates early identification of patients requiring intervention.
• A standardized bladder scanning protocol is recommended for stroke patients to enhance care and prevent complications.