Urinalysis

GENERAL INFORMATION:

What is it? Urinalysis (yer-uh-nal-uh-sis) is one of the oldest known laboratory tests. It is usually referred to as a "UA."

Why do I need it? A UA may be done to see if you have an infection in the kidneys, bladder, or urethra (u-ree-thruh). Kidneys, bladder, and urethra are part of the urinary system. A UA is useful to see how the medicines are working if you have a urinary (yur-in-air-e) infection. A UA is often done when you have a check-up and before surgery. This is to check your health since a UA can help find conditions not related to the urinary system. Some examples are diabetes (di-uh-b-tees), problems with pregnancy, and liver disease.

How do I get ready for the test? A fresh urine sample may be collected at any time of the day. Your health caregiver will tell you when to get the sample.

How is the urine sample collected? Your health caregiver will give you a clean cup, a lid, and a special wipe. Use the wipe to clean the skin around the opening where you pass urine. Urinate into the clean cup. Put the lid on the cup. Do not touch the inside of the cup or the lid. Give the urine sample to your health caregiver.

What do I do after the test? Call your health caregiver to get the results of your test. Your health caregiver will explain what your test results mean for you. Follow the instructions of your health caregiver.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. To help with this plan, you must learn about your illness, injury, surgery, or procedure. You can then discuss the treatment options with your health caregivers. Work with them to decide what care will be used to treat you. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

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