Abstract: Exploring the Research Base and Outcome Measures for Portable Bladder Ultrasound Technology

Michele L. Wagner and Marlene M. Schmid. "Exploring the Research Base and Outcome Measures for Portable Bladder Ultrasound Technology." MEDSURG Nursing 6 (1997) 5.

Objectives:
* "To review the research base concerning urinary tract infection [UTI] and portable bladder ultrasound technology, and to identify outcomes to be monitored when employing this technology."

Methods:
* The authors discuss the incidence and consequences of UTI acquired during hospitalization, and identify risk factors for UTI, which is linked to catheterization. They then discuss portable bladder ultrasound technology, reviewing the studies conducted up to 1997 (the time of the article's publication) concerning the effectiveness of the BladderScan^® BVI 2000, BVI 2500, BVI 2500xl, BVI 2500+, and BVI 5000 in reducing the frequency of catheterization and cost of health care. Research concerning the accuracy and applications of the BVI is also discussed.

Conclusions:
* The authors concluded that "there is a sufficient research base to recommend implementing BladderScan BVI technology."
* "Implementing portable bladder ultrasound technology has the potential to afford improved patient, staff, and fiscal outcomes."

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