How can urine specimens be affected if not collected properly?

Urine specimens can be significantly impacted by improper collection methods, leading to the introduction of contaminants. Contaminants can originate from various sources, including skin cells, bacteria, or foreign substances that may enter the sample during collection. This can skew the results of urinalysis, as these foreign substances may resemble or interfere with the intended analyses, causing false positives or negatives.

Ensuring a clean collection process minimizes this risk. For instance, proper cleansing of the genital area prior to collection is crucial, as it can significantly reduce the risk of bacterial contamination. The use of sterile containers and specific collection techniques, such as midstream collection, also helps in obtaining a sample that reflects the true physiology of the urine and provides accurate diagnostic information.

Other factors, like urine clarity, acidity, or odor, may change due to various physiological or chemical processes but are not necessarily linked to improper collection methods. Therefore, focusing on the prevention of contamination is paramount in maintaining the integrity of urine specimens for accurate testing.