Understanding Urinalysis: Components and Testing Procedures

People may not know the sequences of tests that can be performed on urine samples. Urinalysis is a common test used to diagnose infections, diseases, pregnancy and drug use. Each urine test is made up of several components.

Sampling Process

• To obtain a sample for urinalysis, the patient is directed to a bathroom and instructed to clean the area around the urethra with an antiseptic towelette. When the urine flow is started, a sterile sample cup is placed into the stream of urine to capture an amount for analysis. The cup is sealed and handed over to a medical professional.

Testing

• A basic urinalysis performed as part of a health screening includes assessment of color, clarity, odor and specific gravity. Commonly tested components include protein, glucose, nitrites, leukocyte esterase, ketones and other urine impurities.

Diseases

• During a health-screening urinalysis, the urine may be studied for bacteria, yeast and parasites. Urinalysis can identify abnormalities associated with diabetes, diagnosis of urinary tract infections or injury and kidney stones.

Pregnancy

• Urinalysis is used in home tests and medical settings to determine if a woman is pregnant. A pregnant woman's urine will show elevated amounts of the human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).

Drugs

• Urine testing is often done in labs and doctor's offices for pre-employment and job-related drug screenings. These tests can detect the patient's recent use of illegal drugs such as marijuana, amphetamines, cocaine and opiates.