A clean catch urine sample is a specific collection method used to obtain a specimen that is free from contamination by bacteria, cells, or secretions found on the skin around the genital area. This procedure is typically requested when a healthcare provider needs to test the urine for an infection, such as a urinary tract infection (UTI), or to perform a urinalysis for other conditions. By following a precise cleaning and collection technique, the sample accurately reflects what is happening inside the urinary tract, preventing inaccurate test results that could lead to incorrect diagnosis or unnecessary treatment.
Essential Preparation Steps
Before beginning the collection, it is helpful to have a moderate amount of urine in the bladder, ideally having not voided for two to three hours; an early morning sample is often preferred. Locate the sterile collection kit, which usually contains a specimen cup with a lid and antiseptic towelettes or wipes. Place the supplies within easy reach of the toilet before starting the procedure.
Thorough handwashing with soap and water is necessary to prevent introducing bacteria onto the collection materials. Handle the sterile cup with care, only touching the outside surfaces of the container and the lid. Remove the cap and place it on a clean, flat surface with the inside facing upward until the sample is secured. Position yourself over the toilet, ensuring clothing is moved completely out of the way to prevent contact with the urine stream or the cup during collection.
Specific Cleaning Instructions for Different Anatomies
The cleansing process must be done immediately before collection to minimize the risk of external contamination from the skin’s surface. For female patients, separate the labial folds with one hand and keep them apart throughout the procedure. Using the provided towelette, wipe the area around the urethra, moving only from front to back to avoid dragging bacteria from the anal area forward.
Male patients must clean the head of the penis with the towelette, starting at the urethral opening. If the patient is uncircumcised, the foreskin must first be retracted, and the glans cleaned thoroughly with the wipe. The foreskin should be kept retracted until the collection is complete. The cleaning step is generally repeated with a second, clean towelette to further reduce the presence of superficial microorganisms.
Step-by-Step Midstream Collection
The actual collection involves three distinct phases, designed to use the initial urine flow to flush out any remaining contaminants from the urethra. First, begin urinating into the toilet, allowing the initial stream to pass completely into the bowl to clear the first part of the urethra.
Without stopping the flow of urine, quickly position the sterile collection cup into the stream. This “midstream” portion is the specimen required for testing. Avoid touching the cup to the genital area or the inner toilet surface during this step.
The collection cup should be filled about halfway, typically requiring 30 to 60 milliliters of urine. Once the required amount is collected, carefully remove the cup from the stream. The remaining urine is then passed into the toilet, completing the voiding process.
Handling and Storage After Collection
Immediately after removing the cup from the stream, secure the lid tightly onto the container, ensuring a firm seal to prevent leakage or contamination during transport. Only touch the outer surface of the lid when securing it. Wipe the outside of the container dry if any urine splashed during the collection.
Accurately label the specimen container with the patient’s full name, the date, and the precise time of collection. Providing the exact time is important because the stability of the urine specimen changes over time, which affects the accuracy of test results.
The sample should be delivered to the laboratory or clinic as quickly as possible, ideally within 30 to 60 minutes of collection. If immediate transport is not possible, the specimen must be stored in a refrigerator at approximately 4 degrees Celsius. Refrigerated samples are generally stable for up to 24 hours for culture testing.