It is imperative that the practitioner recognizes onset of any acute emergencies associated with the procedure and responds appropriately. Ensure the patient is aware of possible post‐procedural complications such as infection and the possibility of expected urinary discomfort. Encourage the patient to maintain adequate fluid hydration. Give a full explanation of the results to the patient, allowing time for them to ask questions regarding the preliminary findings, and where appropriate offer support. Prescribe (non‐medical prescriber), or supply under a Patient Group Direction, antibiotics or other follow‐up therapy if required and provide the patient with information on their administration.

Remind the patient of the information and advice they have already been given with regard to lifestyle and side‐effects and who to contact if problems arise. Respond to any questions or requests for further information. It is also important to confirm the details of how the full outcome of the examination will be communicated and of any future appointments and/or referrals (BAUS and BAUN [16], [17], Skills for Health [151], [152], [153], [154]).

Document the observations and outcomes of the procedure and record all decisions made in the patient record. Ensure that any specimens are labelled with the correct accompanying request forms (NMC [114]).