Random Urine Collection for Urinalysis
Urinalysis Detects and Identifies Urinary Tract Infections and Metabolic Disorders
Random urine samples are used for urinalysis, which can screen and diagnose metabolic disorders and urinary tract infections. Your doctor may order urinalysis to determine, for example, the cause of bloody urine, abdominal pains or burning sensations associated with urination. In the absence of symptoms, urinalysis may be ordered as part of a routine assessment of your overall urinary and kidney health.
Preparation and Procedure
- Urine for urinalysis may be collected at any time, at the lab or in your home. You do not need to schedule an appointment at the lab.
- It is preferred that you collect a specimen first thing in the morning, because the first morning urination is more concentrated and likely to yield the best results.
- Prior to urinating, it’s important to wipe your genital area clean so that the specimen is not contaminated with bacteria from your skin.
- Collect one or two ounces of urine into a clean, dry container. You may discard any more. Containers may be obtained at the lab, or you may provide your own.
- Write your name, the time and the date on the side of the container.
- Deliver the container with the entire specimen to the lab as soon as possible. If you expect a delay, refrigerate the specimen to retard growth of bacteria that could affect test results. The specimen should, however, be delivered to the lab within two hours.
Time Required
Your time at the lab will be limited to the amount of time it takes to sign in, register with admitting and leave your specimen. Results from the urinalysis are typically sent to your doctor within days; be assured, however, that any critical results are communicated immediately. Your doctor will discuss the results with you once he or she has reviewed them.
