24 Hour Urine Collection
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
What do I need to know about a 24 hour urine collection?
A 24 hour urine collection is a test to save and measure all the urine you pass in a 24 hour period. The collection may be used to help your healthcare provider identify or treat a medical condition.
How do I prepare for a 24 hour urine collection?
Your healthcare provider will explain the test and why you need it. He or she will tell you when to start the urine test and any instructions you need. He or she will give you a container to collect and store your urine. Eat and drink what you usually would during the collection.
How is a 24 hour urine collection done?
Keep your stored urine cool. Put the container in the refrigerator or in a pan with ice. Do not let your urine come in contact with toilet paper or your bowel movement. These will make the urine unusable.
- On the morning you start the collection, urinate in the toilet, and flush the first urine you pass. Write down the date and time. That is the start time for the collection.
- Collect all urine you pass throughout the day and night. Include the first urine you pass the following morning. That is the end of the collection.
- Give the container with the collected urine to your healthcare provider. Make sure to keep it cool. Do not let it sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
What do I need to know about my test results?
Your healthcare provider will discuss your test results with you.
Care Agreement
You have the right to help plan your care. To help with this plan, you must learn about your lab tests. You can then discuss the results with your healthcare providers. Work with them to decide what care may be used to treat you. You always have the right to refuse treatment.The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
