The purpose of this pilot protocol was to examine the process of instillation of a bladder cancer optical imaging agent for blue light cystoscopy (BLC) procedures in a preoperative area in Bronx, NY with registered nurses (RNs). The RNs followed a process flowchart and completed a checklist.

A retrospective review was completed by the Assistant Director of Research for Urology and the Study Principal Investigator on 20 charts with four time stamps. The time stamps included the “Scheduled Time of Surgery”, “In Pre Procedure”, “Medication Administration Record (MAR)”, and “In Room”. The prospective review was completed on 10 BLC procedures by the preoperative RNs. In addition to the time stamps, there were three other questions descriptively examined on consent completion, an instill catheter order, and catheter placement at the bedside.

The Wilcoxon Test Statistic was utilized to determine whether there was a significant difference between prospective and retrospective timeframes upon implementation of a standardized protocol for a preoperative procedure. The Chi-square test was performed to determine whether there was a significant difference between retrospective and prospective information on “MAR” documentation.

There is no standard protocol for the BLC procedure at this hospital. Inconsistent processes with instillation of the optical imaging agent can result in negative outcomes, delays, and unsafe environments. This pilot protocol for the BLC procedure is important to develop a standard protocol for all preoperative areas that utilize this technology across the United States.