(1) Ask the patient to separate her labia to expose the urethra orifice.
Keeping the labia separated prevents labial or vaginal contamination of the urine
specimen.
(2)
Cleanse the area around the urinary meatus with antiseptic towelettes.
(3) While the patient keeps her labia separated, instruct her to void forcibly.
(4) Allow initial urinary flow to drain into bedpan (toilet) and catch the
midstream specimen in a sterile container.
g. Instruct the patient to repeat the steps of the procedure. Correct
misinformation/understanding as needed.
h. Instruct patient to obtain the required specimen. (Assist as necessary.)
i. Send the specimen to the laboratory immediately.
j. Record the procedure in the patient's clinical records and report significant
observation to the Charge Nurse.
2-12. COLLECTING A TWENTY-FOUR HOUR SPECIMEN
a. Review the patient's clinical record to verify the physician's order and identify
the purpose of the 24-hour specimen.
(1) Urine is routinely collected for 24 hours in order to obtain a substantial
quantity of urine for measuring solutes that are normally excreted in small amounts
(such as hormones, proteins, and electrolytes).
(2) Urine is also collected for 24 hours in order to test excretion rates in one
day's function.
b. Some tests require dietary restrictions prior to and/or during the exam. Be
certain these restrictions are followed.
c. Assemble the necessary equipment.
(1) Twenty-four hour urine collection container. (Container should have
required chemical preservatives inside, as appropriate for test.)
(2)
Urine collection pan/urinal.
(3)
Intake and output worksheet.
MED918
2-11