Urine Analysis Methods

Urine Analysis Methods



Urine Analysis Methods

Introduction

The urine analysis is important as it tells about the conditions associated with urinary tract. These tests provide important information. We have developed and discussed the plan of establishing a comprehensive Urine Bench at country hospital. This paper describes the methods of these different tests, ease of performance, turnaround time, efficiency and cost [1]. The method by which urine is collected and cultured can affect the culture results. The urinalysis must include chemical, physical, and microscopic examinations. For each of these tests midstream clean collection should be used and should be examined in two hours. The urine transportation and collection containers must not contain any interfering substances or particles. The containers must have secure lid as well as be made of break-resistant plastic. The standards by specified by NCCLS guidelines states the container to have the capacity of 50ml, contains a wide base with container opening of at least 4cm. The containers and tubes must be labelled as per the standards. The urine samples must be inspected within 2 hours of collection. If it's not possible then the samples must be refrigerated at 2-8 C. In case of chemical preservation, appropriate specimen to additive ratio should be maintained so that accuracy can be maintained in the test results. Special consideration must be taken for labels to be placed on the tubes and specimen. The volume of the specimen should be adequate while collecting and then also while transferring. The collection date and time must be known as many tests require the specimen to be collected at a particular time. Collection method must be known as the numerous tests have different prerequisite collection methods. Preservation according to standards, temperature, and light requirements are highly demanded as the poor preservation may lead to problems in the analysis {20}.

Urinalysis tells about urologic conditions. It tells about calculi, UTI, and malignancy. These tests help the healthcare providers in making the accurate diagnosis and to start appropriate therapy. Those tests that tell about the culture and sensitivity of bacteria are most commonly used to accurately target the causative organisms. Some of the important methods are discussed below and also tells about those investigations that should be included in laboratory manual.

Discussion

Handling and Collection of Specimen

Disposable Plastic Containers

•Each container must be sealed and wrapped.

•Large enough to hold 55 mL urine.

•Graduated with markings [20].

Disposable Plastic Bottles

•Each bottle must be sealed and wrapped.

•Large enough to hold 35 mL.

•Leak-resistant [20].

Temperature Strips

These strips must read temperature between 90°-100°F [20]. Absorbent Material

It is placed in the specimen bottles, for cases, if the bottle leaks during the shipment [20].

Disposable Gloves

It is recommended that collectors must use disposable gloves for handling urine specimens [20].



Urine Collection Containers

These containers are available in a variety of sizes and shapes with lids. To protect laboratory personnel from specimen exposure and to protect contamination of the specimen, leak-resistant cups must be used [20]

Urine Collection Containers

24-hour specimens collection containers come in a various ...