Urine routine and microscopy test

URINE ROUTINE AND MICROSCOPY TEST

DESCRIPTION – this test looks at a sample of your urine under a microscope. It can see cells from your urinary tract, blood cells, crystals, bacteria, parasites and cells from tumors. This test is often used to confirm the findings of other tests or add information to a diagnosis.

METHODOLOGY – culture/identification

TURN AROUND TIME – negative within 3 days and positive as soon as detected

SPECIMEN REQUIERED –

COLLECT – midstream urine or foley catheter urine

SPECIMEN PREPARATION – urine transfer to a sterile container or transfer urine to a boric acid transport tube

STORAGE/TRANSPORT TEMPERATURE –

Unpreserved – refrigerated

Boric acid transport tube – room temperature

STABILITY –

Unpreserved – ambient: 2 hours; refrigerated: 24 hours

Refrigerated – ambient: 48 hours; refrigerated: 48 hours

UNACCEPTABLE CONDITION – urine from catheter bag, pooled specimen, foley catheter tips

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS – clinical history is mandatory