24 Hour Urine Collection
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
AMBULATORY CARE:
What you 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 to 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 a 24 hour urine collection is 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 you need to know about your test results:
Your healthcare provider will discuss your test results with you.
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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.
Further information
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