What are the nursing interventions before urinalysis?

Nursing Considerations for Routine Urinalysis

1. Instruct the patient to void directly into a clean, dry container. Sterile, disposable containers are recommended. Women should always have a clean-catch specimen if a microscopic examination is ordered. Feces, discharges, vaginal secretions and menstrual blood will contaminate the urine specimen.

2. Collect specimens form infants and young children into a disposable collection apparatus consisting of a plastic bag with an adhesive backing around the opening that can be fastened to the perineal area or around the penis to permit voiding directly to the bag. Depending on hospital policy, the collected urine can be transferred to an appropriate specimen container.

3. Cover all specimens tightly, label properly and send immediately to the laboratory.

4. If a urine sample is obtained from an indwelling catheter, it may be necessary to clamp the catheter for about 15-30 minutes before obtaining the sample. Clean the specimen port with antiseptic before aspirating the urine sample with a needle and a syringe.

5. Observe standard precautions when handling urine specimens.

6. If the specimen cannot be delivered to the laboratory or tested within an hour, it should be refrigerated or have an appropriate preservative added.