(4) When collecting a 24-hour specimen, ensure that the patient fully
understands the collection procedure. If the patient fails to collect all the urine voided in
a 24-hour period, the resulting evaluation will be erroneous.
(5) If a "sterile" sample of urine is required, it should be obtained by
catheterization. Such a sample might be necessary for a urine culture and sensitivity
test. Catheterization is discussed in Section III.
2-11. COLLECTING A CLEAN CATCH URINE SPECIMEN
a. Review patient's clinical record to verify physician's order for a clean catch
urine specimen.
b. Assemble the necessary equipment.
(1)
Antiseptic towelettes.
(2)
Disposable gloves for nurse if assisting a female patient.
(3)
Sterile specimen container.
c. Approach and identify the patient.
d. Explain the procedure to the patient. Patient will be asked to collect a virtually
uncontaminated midstream urine specimen. (This is commonly referred to as a
"clean-catch" urine specimen.) Because the urethra orifice is colonized by bacteria,
urine readily becomes contaminated during voiding.
e. Instruct the male patient in the steps of collecting a clean-catch urine
specimen.
(1) Instruct the patient to expose glands and cleanse area around meatus.
Wash area with a mild antiseptic solution (towelettes).
(2)
Allow the initial urinary flow to escape into toilet or urinal.
(3)
Collect the midstream urine specimen in a sterile container.
(4) Avoid collecting the last few drops of urine. (Prostatic secretions may be
introduced into urine at the end of the urinary stream.)
f. Instruct the female patient in the steps of collecting a clean catch urine
specimen.
MED918
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