How to Prepare for Urinalysis
Many people are uncomfortable with having to go to the doctor for an annual exam, which almost always entails lab tests. One of the most common lab tests is the urinalysis. A urinalysis is a medical test that evaluates a sample of a patient's urine to detect a wide range of disorders, such as urinary tract infections, diabetes, or kidney disease, according to the Mayo Clinic.
If you know and understand why your doctor has ordered a certain test, you will be more relaxed and confident during the test. A urinalysis is typically given annually, and most people are given a "clean bill of health" from their physicians after the test results are reviewed.
Instructions
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Ask your doctor or health care provider these questions before your urinalysis:
o Why does the test need to be done?
o What should I do before the test?
o Where do I need to go to take the test?
o How will the results of this test affect my medical care?
o Could my lifestyle habits, like smoking, affect this test? -
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Prepare a list of the medications, vitamins, or supplements you regularly take. Give the list to the lab technician. All drugs can affect the results of your tests.The Mayo Clinic notes that you should eat and drink normally before a routine urinalysis.
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Follow your doctor's instructions regarding collection of the specimen. Some tests require the urine specimen to be collected when you first awake in the morning because at that time your urine is more concentrated. If your doctor requires a first-in-the-morning specimen, make a mental note the night before. Also, as another reminder, place the specimen container on the closed lid of the toilet to avoid forgetting in the morning. Deliver the collected specimen to either your doctor's office or the lab as directed.
Your doctor might also instruct you to use the "clean catch method" whether you are at home, at your doctor's office, or at the lab. Clean the urinary opening with the moist towelette provided by the nurse or lab technician before you urinate into the plastic cup provided. You may also be instructed to initiate urination into the toilet, then stop the flow before continuing again into the specimen collection container. -
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Fast the night before your urinalysis, if ordered by your doctor. If your doctor has ordered a urinalysis test in combination with other tests, it is very likely you will have to fast before the test. To fast simply means to stop all eating and drinking, usually at midnight. If your appointment is scheduled for later in the day, such as in the afternoon or evening, you should not consume food or liquids for at least twelve hours prior to the lab exam. If you have specific health problems, such as diabetes, check with your physician for specific fasting instructions prior to the test.
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