Ateneo de Zamboanga University

College of Nursing
Related Learning Experience
Intensive Care Unit
Nursing Skills Output

24-HOUR URINE COLLECTION

DEFINITION
A 24-hour urine collection is a simple diagnostic procedure that measures the
components of urine through physical, chemical, and microscopic examination. The test is
noninvasive and may be used to assess renal function. The color, density, and odor of urine
can reveal much about the state of health of an individual. In this test, urine samples are
collected in one or more containers over a period of 24 hours.

PURPOSE
This procedure is done for the purpose of:
• general evaluation of health;
• diagnosis of metabolic or systemic diseases that affect kidney function;
• diagnosis of endocrine disorders;
• diagnosis of diseases or disorders of the kidneys or urinary tract;
• testing for pregnancy; and
• screening for drug abuse.

OBJECTIVES
1. Assess the ability of the kidney to concentrate and dilute urine
2. Determine disorders of glucose metabolism.

PREPARATIONS
For many urine chemistry procedures, the specimen of choice is 24-hour urine. A 24-
hour urine collection is performed by collecting a person’s urine in a special container over
a 24-hour period. It always begins with an empty bladder so that the urine collected is not
“left over” from previous hours. This specimen shows the total amounts of wastes the kidneys
are eliminating and the amount of each. The test does not require anything other than normal
urination. There are no risks involved. Generally, the patient will be given one or more
containers to collect and store urine over a 24-hour time period.

BEFORE PROCEDURES
1. Check the patient’s record for orders for specific tests.
Rationale: This is to ensure that the test is included in the doctor’s order for the patient’s
treatment plan before the test is done to meet specific client outcomes.
2. Assemble the equipment needed for the test and gather necessary supplies.
Rationale: Organization of equipment and necessary supplies provides an accurate skill
performance and will save time and effort.
3. Consult the laboratory for special instructions regarding dietary restrictions and
preservatives for tests order.
Rationale: Certain medications, vitamins, and supplements can cause irregularities in
urinalysis results. Some foods can also cause changes to the color and odor of urine that may
lead to an irregularity during urinalysis.
4. Introduce yourself to the patient and verify patient’s identity.4
Rationale: This is important to establish rapport and to identify the correct patient for many
reasons, including but not limited to patient safety, protection of privacy, and proper billing.
5. Explain to the patient the directions for collection in detail.
Rationale: Patient understanding is likely to encourage compliance.
MATERIALS/ EQUIPMENT
• Large-capped collection container (containing preservative, if necessary)
• Clean bedpan or toilet specimen container, adhesive urine collection bag, or clean
urinal, if an indwelling catheter is not in place
• Large basin with ice (freshened with new ice, when the ice melts)
• Adhesive label or marker
• Signs: “24-Hour Urine Collection in Progress”
• Nonsterile gloves
• Bedside data collection record to monitor progress of urine collection

AFTER PROCEDURES
1. Observe standard precautions when handling urine specimens.
2. Cover all specimens tightly, label properly and send immediately to the laboratory.
3. If a urine sample is obtained from an indwelling catheter, it may be necessary to clamp
the catheter for about 15-30 minutes before obtaining the sample. Clean the specimen
port with antiseptic before aspirating the urine sample with a needle and a syringe.
4. If the specimen cannot be delivered to the laboratory or tested within an hour, it
should be refrigerated or have an appropriate preservative added.

DIAGRAM/ ILLUSTRATION

REFERENCES
Corder CJ, Rathi BM, Sharif S, et al. 24-Hour Urine Collection. [Updated 2022 Aug 8]. In:
StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482482/.

Submitted by: Jehan Kayle T. Birin Edwin R. Abu, RN, MN, LPT
____________________________
Date: August 11, 2023 Clinical Instructor