Urinalysis clinical skill

Normal urinalysis findings (Colour, appearance, odor, PH, specific gravity (SG), glucose, ketones, nitrates, leukocytes, RBCs, protein)

Colour = pale yellow
Appearance = clear or slightly cloudy
Odor = Not offensive
PH = 4.6-8 (slightly acidic)
Specific gravity (SG) = 1.010-1.020
Glucose = absent
Ketones = absent
Nitrates = negative
Leukocytes = absent
RBCS = absent to low
Protein = absent

What does and SG of 1.030 indicate?

• Concentrated urine

• May be caused by dehydration

What does a dark yellow colour indicate?

• Concentrated urine

• May be caused by dehydration

What does positive glucose indicate?

May indicate hyperglycaemia (eg. diabetes)

What does positive ketones indicate?

Starvation, fasting, uncontrolled diabetes

What does positive nitrates indicate?

Bacterial infection (UTI)

What does positive leukocytes indicate?

Infection (UTI)

What does positive proteins indicate?

Kidney issues or infection

What does a high PH indicate?

High protein diet, acidosis

What does a low PH indicate?

Infection or certain diets

Equipment required

• Pt urine sample

• Sterile specimen pot with lid

• Waterproof pad (bluey)

• Clean gloves

• Urinalysis

Optional

• Glasses

• Apron

What do you document?

• Indication of procedure

• Time and date sample was taken

• Time and date sample was tested

• Sample characteristics = colour, appearance and odour

• Results of test strip

Where to document

• Observation and response chart

• Progress notes