How Our Routine Urinalysis Test Works

Placing an order for the Routine Urinalysis Test with us at Priority Lab Testing is quick, easy, and convenient. Add the routine urinalysis test option to your cart and any additional tests you need. Then come to one of the 4,000 locations we have nationwide to complete the test. A urinalysis is a lab examination and evaluation of a urine sample. There are no needles or blood draw for this test, and there is no need to fast beforehand or make any special preparations. You will simply need to provide a urine sample at the laboratory, and the test is complete.

There is no requirement for you to make an appointment. When you have a moment, stop into the most convenient location for you, check in with staff, and they will provide you the kit to collect a sample, which is likely to include a cleansing wipe and container. After proceeding to the restroom,  you will follow the directions for cleaning and catching the urine sample. When you finish collecting your sample, you can hand the container to the lab specialist, who will then send it for testing, and you are free to leave. Within the next 24-72 hours, you will gain access to your routine urinalysis results.

What is a Routine Urinalysis Test?

As part of the urinalysis¹ test, the individual examining the sample will look at several factors, including the visual appearance of the urine, microscopic evaluation of the urine, and a dipstick to look for properties in the urine that may indicate a health issue.

When Should You Get a Routine Urinalysis Test?

A routine urine test² can be used for various reasons, but mostly it is part of an overall health evaluation. Yearly urinalysis tests are recommended to stay on top of any potential changes in your health. A urinalysis can be part of the diagnosis process if you begin to develop concerning symptoms. Additionally, suppose you have an upcoming surgery. In that case, you can use a urinalysis and other tests to check if you must address any health concerns or issues during preparation for the procedure.

Signs you may need a routine urinalysis test:

• Pain while urinating
• Dark or cloudy urine
• Persistent back pain
• Frequent urination
• Visible blood in the urine

How to Interpret Your Routine Urinalysis Test?

When you receive your urinalysis test results, there will be a column of variables tested, and the results will appear alongside each one and the reference range. If any test factors are abnormal, the results will indicate this. Your test will show high or low if you are outside the reference range. If the test is looking for the presence of a particular element, it will show negative if it is not present or positive/trace if found in the examination of your urine sample.

Common tests that are part of a urinalysis include color, appearance, specific gravity, ph levels, glucose, bilirubin, ketones, occult blood, protein, nitrite, leukocyte esterase, WBC (white blood cells), RBC (red blood cells), squamous epithelial cells, and the presence of bacteria. Your results will list each of these aspects separately with the results and reference range for each one.

Routine Urinalysis Versus Renal Function Panel

While a routine urinalysis test is common as part of an annual general health check-up, a renal function panel will look closer at your kidney functions. If a urinalysis raises concerns related to your kidneys, it could be helpful to follow up with a renal function panel.