Urine Collection for Microbiology Examination

1. Urine for Urinary Tract Infection

A midstream urine (MSU) in a red topped 30 mL boric acid container.

a) How to take an MSU: Click Here

b) Investigation to request:

CPD – select MICUF

ICE – select ‘Urine for MC & S’ from the Micro panel

2. Common Problems with urine samples

Wrong sample bottle used:

Always send a red topped container for ?UTI samples

Never use a red topped bottle for urine dipstix

Always send a white topped bottle for urinary antigen tests

3. Urgent microscopy required

CPD – set sample urgency status to ‘urgent’

ICE – set sample priority status to ‘urgent’

4. Treatment guidelines for community

Please Click Here

5. Urine for suspected Schistosomes

For S. haematobium a complete collection of urine voided between 10:00 and 14:00 is required. At least 3 such specimens should be examined. Serological tests to exclude Schistosomiasis may be requested after 3 months from the last exposure. The laboratory supplies suitable containers on request.

Web Page 41 Reviewed 28/06/19

Update for visitors

Visiting restrictions are in place at our hospitals to stop the spread of norovirus. These restrictions will be in place until further notice.

The following wards are closed to visitors:

York Hospital: Ward 29 and Ward 37.

There are four exceptions only to the restrictions. These are:

For patients who are receiving end of life care

Paediatric patients (babies and children)

Maternity care

The family carers of those with dementia

We understand these restrictions can be difficult when a loved one is unwell. The restrictions will be reviewed daily and lifted as soon as it is safe. Thank you for your understanding as we try to reduce the spread of norovirus in our hospitals.