A Randomized Control Trial Comparing Single vs. Multiple Application of Lidocaine Analgesia Prior to Urethral Catheterization Procedures

The purpose of this study is to determine if a single application of Lidocaine gel topical anesthesia is as effective in decreasing the discomfort associated with urinary catheterization as two applications, within our pediatric population. Currently, two applications is our standard of care within our pediatric Radiology Department. Urinary catheterization is the process of placing a flexible tube into the urinary opening (urethra), to drain urine or instill radiographic solution for study of the anatomy and/or function of the urinary system. Members of the study team hypothesize equivalence in the observer reported catheterization pain scores as measured by the FLACC pain scale. The study is designed to obtain conclusive data to guide clinical practice. The study team hypothesizes that statistically similar levels of analgesia will be observed with the single application procedure as compared to the multiple application technique.