How is a urine specimen described if collected properly?

A urine specimen is described as virtually uncontaminated when it has been collected properly. This means that the sample is free from outside substances that could interfere with the test results. Proper collection techniques are critical to obtaining a specimen that accurately reflects the patient's urinary time and health status. For instance, a clean-catch midstream collection method is often used to minimize contamination from the urethra or surrounding area. This ensures that the urine collected is representative of what is in the bladder, thus providing reliable diagnostic information.

In contrast, other descriptors like contaminated, diluted, or inadequate indicate issues that compromise the quality of the specimen. Contaminated specimens include foreign substances that can lead to false-positive results or misinterpretation of the patient's condition. Diluted urine may result from excessive fluid intake or other factors that alter the concentration of the urine, potentially affecting the results of tests. An inadequate specimen refers to a sample that does not meet the volume or quality requirements necessary for testing. Collectively, these terms highlight the importance of following proper procedures to ensure that a urine specimen is as close to "virtually uncontaminated" as possible for reliable testing outcomes.