How should I prepare a patient for a cystoscopy procedure, including any necessary pre-procedural assessments?

Preparation for a cystoscopy procedure involves several key steps to ensure patient safety and procedural success.

• Pre-procedural assessment: Evaluate the patient's medical history, including any history of urinary tract infections, bleeding disorders, or allergies, especially to local anaesthetics or antiseptics.
• Assess for symptoms that may suggest active urinary tract infection or other contraindications to cystoscopy, as these may require treatment before the procedure.
• Consider renal imaging or other investigations if there are symptoms suggesting upper urinary tract disease, as cystoscopy is not routinely used for surveillance but indicated if bladder stones or other complications are suspected.
• Patient information and consent: Explain the procedure, its purpose, potential risks (such as infection, bleeding, or discomfort), and aftercare to the patient and carers, ensuring informed consent is obtained.
• Infection control: Ensure aseptic technique during the procedure to minimise infection risk.
• Medication review: Review anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy and manage according to local protocols to reduce bleeding risk.
• Bladder preparation: The bladder should be empty before the procedure; patients may be asked to void prior to cystoscopy.

These steps help identify any risks, optimise patient condition, and provide necessary information to the patient, facilitating a safe and effective cystoscopy procedure.