Urine Samples

1. Random, untimed urine collections are usually taken for microbiological testing (C&S).
2. For most biochemical tests, timed samples (eg. 24-hur) are required. Mark the start and end time on the label.
3. Random samples for microbiology should be collected into a sterile container. Hands must be thoroughly washed and dried before the sample is collected.
4. Collect mid-stream sample and care should be taken that no part of the body touches the rim or interior of the container before, during or after collection. The lid should be securely fastened after collection. 

Timed Samples (24-hr Urine Collection):

It is essential for interpretation of the results that urine collection is accurately timed.  A timed collection is to be collected as follows: 

1. Patient to empty his/her bladder and discard this urine.
2. The time must be noted; this is the time of starting the collection.
3. ALL urine passed from now until the end of the collection period must be collected into the container.
4. Caution patient of harm of preservatives and manage with care.
5. During collection period, keep container in a cool, dry place. Refrigerate at 4-8 °C.

The sample requirements, including abstinence of certain foods and medications, vary from test to test. VMA testing has dietary restriction eg. abstain from vanilla, chocolate, coffee, bananas, citrus fruit, salt, aspirin & hypertensive drugs. As some of the preservatives can be harmful (especially acids), patient should first pass each voiding of his/her bladder into a separate clean container then immediately transfer sample into the timed collection container with preservative.

24 hour/Overnight urine samples are not suitable for culture. If delay of delivery is expected, refrigerate sample before sending to Lab. 

Microbiology Samples

1. Refer to the sample type of the test listing for the specific instructions indicated.
2. Proper collection is essential to avoid sample contamination.
3. Indicate appropriate clinical information and sample source/site on the request form.
4. Collect samples before administration of antibiotics, otherwise indicate antibiotics administered on the request form.
5. Label the sample container clearly with 2 unique identifiers.
6. Send the sample to Lab promptly.

Liquid Based Cytology Test

1. Collect adequate sampling from the cervix using a cytobrush.
2. Rinse the brush in the solution vial. Discard the brush. Do not leave brush inside the vial.
3. Tighten vial cap properly to prevent leakage.
4. Write patient’s name and ID on the label of the vial.
5. Provide clinical information and medical history on the request form.
6. Unlabelled vial will be rejected.

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