Urine culture - catheterized specimen
What is Urine Culture - Catheterized Specimen?
A urine culture - catheterized specimen is a laboratory test used to detect the presence of microbes, such as bacteria, fungi, or parasites in the urine. It is also used to identify the type and amount of microbe and to detect any antibiotic resistance in the microbe. The test is usually requested when a person has a suspected urinary tract infection (UTI).
Preparation for Urine Culture - Catheterized Specimen
No special preparation is required for a urine culture - catheterized specimen. However, it is important to take the sample as soon as possible after the catheter is inserted, so that the sample is not contaminated by any bacteria present in the skin or on the hands of the healthcare provider. It is also important to follow the instructions of the healthcare provider when collecting the sample, to ensure the best results.
Procedure for Urine Culture - Catheterized Specimen
A urine culture - catheterized specimen is obtained by inserting a sterile catheter into the bladder and then collecting a sample of the urine. The sample is then analyzed in a laboratory for microbes. The laboratory analysis may also include other tests such as a urine culture and sensitivity (C&S) test to determine which microbes are present in the urine and which antibiotics may be effective against them.
Types of Urine Culture - Catheterized Specimen
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Midstream Urine Culture: Midstream urine culture is the preferred sample for urine culture. In this test, the urine is allowed to pass out of the body before the sample is collected. This helps to ensure that the sample is not contaminated with bacteria present in the skin or the environment.
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Clean Catch Urine Culture: Clean catch urine culture is another type of urine culture in which the sample collection process is done carefully to avoid any contamination. In this method, a person is asked to clean the urethral opening using special wipes. The sample is then collected in a sterile container.
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Suprapubic Aspiration: Suprapubic aspiration is the preferred sample in cases where contamination of the sample is a concern. In this method, a needle is inserted through the skin and into the bladder to obtain the sample.
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Catheterization: Catheterization is the most common method for collecting a sample for a urine culture. In this method, a sterile, flexible tube is inserted into the bladder and the urine is collected in a sterile container.
Risks of Urine Culture - Catheterized Specimen
Most urine cultures - catheterized specimen involve minimal risk. The risks are: infection at the site where the catheter is inserted; discomfort during the procedure; and in some cases, bleeding. To reduce the risk of infection, proper selection of the catheter and sterile technique is necessary.
Why is Urine Culture - Catheterized Specimen Done?
Urine culture - catheterized specimen is done to diagnose a urinary tract infection by determining the type and amount of microbe present in the urine sample. The test is usually requested when a person has symptoms of a UTI such as burning or pain during urination, an increased need to urinate, or foul-smelling or cloudy urine.
When is Urine Culture - Catheterized Specimen Done?
Urine culture - catheterized specimen is usually requested when a person has symptoms of a UTI that cannot be diagnosed with a routine urinalysis. It may also be requested when a person has a structural or functional abnormality of the urinary tract that increases the risk of infection. Additionally, the test may be ordered for people who are undergoing certain medical treatments, such as chemotherapy or dialysis.