To take a clean catch urine sample, follow these steps:
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Wash Your Hands: Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water and dry them. This helps prevent contamination of the sample.
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Clean the Genital Area: This step is crucial for a "clean catch" sample.
- Women: Use a sterile wipe (often provided with the collection kit) to clean from front to back. Repeat this 2-3 times using a fresh wipe each time. Separate the labia during the cleaning process.
- Men: If uncircumcised, retract the foreskin and clean the head of the penis using a sterile wipe. Repeat this 2-3 times with fresh wipes.
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Start Urinating: Begin to urinate into the toilet. Let a small amount of urine flow out first. This initial stream washes away any bacteria present in the urethra.
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Collect the Midstream Urine: Without stopping the flow of urine, position the sterile collection cup (provided by your doctor or nurse) to catch the urine midstream. You only need to collect a small amount, usually about 1-2 ounces (30-60 ml), or as instructed by your healthcare provider.
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Finish Urinating into the Toilet: Once you've collected the midstream sample, finish urinating into the toilet.
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Secure the Lid: Carefully remove the collection cup and tightly secure the lid to prevent leaks.
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Wash Your Hands Again: Wash your hands again after collecting the sample.
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Label and Deliver: Label the container with your name, date of birth, and the date and time of collection. Deliver the sample to the designated location as soon as possible, following any specific instructions given by your doctor or lab. Refrigeration might be necessary if there's a delay in delivering the sample.
