Elimination of bleeding associated with urinary catheterization in neonates.

Three cases of hematuria associated with urinary catheterization in infant males in this NICU over a year prompted an investigation by the health care team. The team tracked catheterizations in the unit, conducted a national survey, and did a literature review. Based on their findings, the team revised the unit policy and procedure and evaluated new products. After changes were implemented, the incidence of hematuria--originally at 20.7 percent--dropped to 5.5 percent during the first evaluation period and to zero during a second follow-up period.