Evaluation of the Quick Wee method of inducing faster clean catch urine collection in pre-continent infants: a randomized controlled trial

Introduction: The acquisition of non-contaminated urine samples in pre-continent infants remains a challenge. The Quick Wee method uses bladder stimulation to induce voiding. A previous randomized trial showed a higher rate of voiding within 5 minutes using this method. We evaluated this method in an Irish hospital providing secondary care.

Methods: A non-blinded, randomized, controlled trial was carried out. Eligible infants were between 1 and 12 months of age, who required urine sampling as part of clinical care. Participants were randomly allocated to receive the intervention (Quick Wee Method-supra-pubic stimulation with cold saline) or the control (usual care-clean catch with no bladder stimulation) for 5 min. Primary outcome was voiding of urine within 5 min.

Results: A total of 140 infants were included in this study (73 in intervention group; 67 in control group). Baseline characteristics were similar. 25% in the intervention group passed urine in the 5-min trial period compared with 18% in the control group [P = 0.4, absolute difference 7% (95% confidence interval: - 7% to + 20%)].

Conclusion: The Quick Wee method is a simple and inexpensive intervention that did not show a statistically significant increase in urine samples obtained in pre-continent infants.