The following procedures are for patient-collect specimens and can be collected at home by the patient, with the exception of collection of a urine specimen from a catheter which requires the collector's assistance and drug screening tests which require supervision by the collector's. Please indicate on request if urine is from an indwelling catheter. Urine from a catheter drainage bag is unsuitable for examination.
Mid-Stream Urine (MSU) for Microscopy, Culture and Sensitivities (MC&S)
1. Patient Identification
2. Prepare Collection Equipment
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50 mL Yellow top sterile container
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Three sterile water wipes
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Label with patient details, the collection date and time
3. Perform hand hygiene.
The collector is required to explain the collection procedure to the patient
Females:
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Cleanse the Labia front and back with a sterile water wipe. Discard the wipe and repeat twice
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Urinate the first stream into the toilet
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Collect the flow of the next 30 - 40 mLs into the sterile pot. A minimum of 10 mLs is required
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Collection of urine should be avoided during menses
Males:
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Cleanse the tip of the penis with a sterile water wipe. Discard the wipe and repeat twice
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Withdraw the foreskin (if relevant) and urinate the first stream into the toilet
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Collect the flow of the next 30 - 40 mLs into the sterile pot. A minimum of 10 mLs is required
4. Perform hand hygiene.
5. Send the urine specimen with the request form to the laboratory as soon as possible. Urine to be stored at 4ºC until forwarding to the laboratory.
