Specimen HandlingQuestion 73 of 100
A routine urinalysis cannot be tested for 90 minutes. What is the correct interim handling?
a.Refrigerate the specimen or use a chemical preservative tube
b.Leave it at room temperature and test when convenient
c.Freeze the specimen
d.Add a small amount of bleach to prevent bacterial growth
Explanation
Urine should be tested within about two hours or refrigerated, because bacteria multiply and cells and casts break down at room temperature. A preservative transport tube is an accepted alternative. Freezing destroys formed elements, and adding a disinfectant contaminates the specimen and invalidates chemical testing.
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