
Overview
This module describes how to perform suprapubic bladder aspiration to obtain uncontaminated urine in children or adults.
Indications
Contraindications
Patient information and consent
Always verify your patient’s identity and obtain informed consent before proceeding.
How do I explain this procedure?
“I need to remove urine from your (or your child’s) bladder. I cannot put in a catheter, so I have to use a needle and syringe instead.”
What can my patient expect?
“This will only take a few seconds. You will feel a sharp sting when I insert the needle, but this procedure is very quick, and first giving you an injection for pain will hurt just as much as the procedure itself.”
What is my patient’s role?
“Let me know if you have had recent surgery, any allergies or a bleeding tendency, or use blood thinners. Fearing blood or needles is normal, but tell me if you have fainted from it. Keep as still as possible. If you feel strange sensations or severe pain, tell me immediately.”
Preparation
Prepare a trolley with equipment. If the patient is a child, an assistant is required to immobilise the legs.

Documentation
Equipment
Site and Positioning
Position the patient supine with their heels drawn up to their bottom and legs parted.
Procedure
Follow medical asepsis with sterile gloves.
Troubleshooting
I’m not getting urine.
Don’t attempt multiple times. Withdraw and ask a senior’s advice. Ultrasound may be a helpful adjunct in difficult cases.