A urinalysis is performed to screen for certain medical problems, such as diabetes, kidney problems, cancer or infection. A urine culture is performed if a urinary tract infection is suspected.
Arrive at our office with a full bladder.
The receptionist will give you a sticker with your name and Social Security number. Once you are in the bathroom, place the sticker on one of the sterile cups provided. There will be detailed instructions in the bathroom as to how to obtain a mid-stream urine specimen. Please tightly seal the cup and place it in the door in the bathroom that leads to the lab. Make sure the door is tightly shut so the door can be opened on the other side.
We can run a screening urinalysis in the office. We will let you know the results of that test within 5 minutes. If the urinalysis is sent to the lab for a microscopic analysis, we will not have results for 24 hours. If a urine culture is needed, we will not have results for 48 hours. We will call you with results. Please make sure we have a pharmacy number if the event that a prescription is needed.
I think I might have a bladder infection and I am really uncomfortable. Do I need to wait for results?
If you suspect a bladder infection and are having symptoms of urgency, frequency, blood in the urine, fever or back pain, tell the medical assistant. A physician or physician assistant will see you immediately after you give us a specimen and determine if you need an antibiotic while we wait for the results of your culture.
If it is after hours, the doctor on call can phone in a prescription if you are very uncomfortable.
I was told I have blood in my urine. Is this serious?
Usually not. Often, blood in the urine results from vaginal bleeding or spotting. If that is the case, please let the medical assistant know at the time of your urinalysis. Blood is often an indication of an infection or inflammation of the urinary tract and a culture may be recommended even if you have no other symptoms. Persistent blood is occasionally an indication of bladder or kidney cancer, so if blood is detected without another explanation, we will refer you to an urologist for further evaluation.
I need to have a urinalysis and possibly a culture, but it is difficult for me to get to your office.
Let us know and we will arrange to do your testing at a Quest facility that is more convenient for you.
Can I urinate at home and bring my urine in a clean receptacle?
No. The results will not be accurate.
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