Urine Specimen Types and Collection Techniques

Question 1

Random Sample

Answer 1

Description: Urine collected at any time.

Uses: routine screening; cytology studies (with prior hydration); fluid deprivation tests

Question 2

First Morning

Answer 2

Description: First urine voided after sleep (6-8 hours); most concentrated urine

Uses: routine screening; good recovery of cells and casts. To confirm postural and orthostatic proteinuria; cytology studies.

Question 3

Timed

Answer 3

Description: Collect all urine during a specific timed interval (e.g. 24-hour, 12-hour, 2-hour). Preservatives and/or refrigeration during collection may be required.

Uses: Quantitative chemical analysis; clearance tests; cytology studies; evaluation of fistula.

Question 4

Routine void collection

Answer 4

Description: No preparation before collection

Uses: Routine screening

Question 5

Midstream clean catch void collection

Answer 5

Description: Genital area cleansed before collection; patient passes initial urine into toilet, stops and collects urine in container, then empties any remaining urine into toilet.

Uses: Bacterial and fungal cultures (sterile container required); routine screening; cytology.

Question 6

Catheterized, urethral void collection

Answer 6

Description: A catheter is inserted into the bladder via the urethra. Urine flows directly from the bladder through the catheter into a plastic bag.

Uses: Bacterial and fungal cultures; routine screening

Question 7

Catheterized, ureteral void collection

Answer 7

Description: A catheter is inserted through the urethra and bladder and into the left and right ureter; urine is collected from each ureter before it reaches the bladder.

Uses: To determine and differentiate kidney infections.

Question 8

Subprapubic aspiration void collection

Answer 8

Description: Using sterile needle and syringe, the abdominal wall is punctured, and urine is directly aspirated from the bladder.

Uses: Bacterial and fungal culture

Question 9

Pediatric collection bag void collection

Answer 9

Description: Used with patients unable to urinate voluntarily; plastic collection bag is adhered to the skin surrounding the genital area. Urine accumulates in plastic bag.

Uses: Routine screening; Quantitative assays