Urine Sample Collection

Urgent Care Clinic Schedule

  • The following collection instructions are intended to help you collect the correct specimen for the test your clinician has requested.
  • First read the instructions carefully, make sure you are prepared, and then follow each of the steps to ensure proper collection.
  • Early morning urine specimens are preferred; although urine collected at other times of the daycare acceptable. A “mid – stream clean catch” urine sample is necessary for a culture so that any bacteria present around the urethra and on the hands do not contaminate the specimen.
  • Use an approved empty sterile container for collection.
  • Complete the information requested on the container label. Make sure you include:
    Your full name
    Date of birth
    The date and time you collected the specimen. If you have a requisition, note the date and time on the requisition.
  • Wash and dry your hands thoroughly.
  • Remove the container cap and set it aside. Do not touch inner surfaces of container.
  • Wash your urogenital area (“lower parts”) with the towelette provided. Women – wipe from front to back between the folds of skin. Men – retract the foreskin (if un-circumcised), and clean the glans (head of the penis).
    The intent is to collect a sample midway through the urination process (hence the name “midstream”urine).
  • Pass a small amount of urine into the toilet, (women, hold skin folds apart). This initial stream of urine may be contaminated with skin and urethral bacteria.
  • Then midway through urination, urinate into the container. The container should only be 1/2 to 2/3 full.
  • Replace the cap and tighten firmly.
  • Remember to wash your hands well after collecting the specimen.
  • Keep the urine sample refrigerated and submit to the laboratory within 24 hours of collection.