Find a Doctor Employment at WakeMed Events & Education For Physicians For Employees Contact Us

Health Care Encyclopedia

Health Information Encyclopedia - Medical Tests

Urine sample
Urine sample
Female urinary tract
Female urinary tract
Male urinary tract
Male urinary tract

Urine odor

Definition:

Testing may be needed to find the cause of urine odor.



How the test is performed:

To obtain a clean-catch urine sample, males should wipe clean the head of the penis and females should wipe between the labia with soapy water and rinse well. Sometimes a special clean-catch kit is provided with cleansing solution and sterile wipes.

After urinating a small amount into the toilet bowl to clear the urethra of contaminants, collect a sample of urine in a clean or sterile container. About 1�- 2 ounces of urine is needed for a test. Remove the container from the urine stream without stopping the flow. You may finish voiding into the toilet bowl. Take the sample to the lab.

For infants:

Your infant's genital area will be cleaned and dried, then a collection device is attached to collect the urine. If you are asked to collect the urine, be sure the collection device is attached securely to prevent leakage. After your baby has urinated, the urine (at least 20 cc) is transferred to a sterile container�for transport back to the health care provider. The specimen is then smelled in a laboratory or by the health care provider to determine its odor.



How to prepare for the test:

No special preparation is necessary for this test, but if the collection is being taken from an infant, a couple of extra collection bags may be necessary.



How the test will feel:

The test involves only normal urination, and there is no discomfort.



Why the test is performed:



Normal Values:

The normal odor of urine is aromatic.



What abnormal results mean:

Abnormal urine odor may indicate:



What the risks are:

There are no risks.



Special considerations:

When urine sits at room temperature, some of the chemicals in the urine may break down and cause an ammonia-like odor.

Asparagus produces a characteristic odor in the urine.




Review Date: 10/20/2005
Reviewed By: David R. Knowles, M.D., Advanced Urologic Surgeons, Mt. Vernon, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

adam.com

Heart Center
Women's Pavilion & Birthplace
Children's Center
Center for Patient Safety
Emergency Services/Trauma
Rehab


To read our disclaimer, click here