WHAT IS A Urine (MSU) TEST?
A midstream specimen of urine (MSU) is tested to look for infection. Symptoms of a urine infection can include pain when you pass urine and passing urine frequently. However symptoms are not always typical, particularly in children and elderly.
How do i obtain a Urine (msu) sample?
If the doctor or nurse has asked you to do a midstream specimen of urine, they will either provide you with a sterile container to urinate into, or ask you to collect a container from reception. A midstream sample (urine from the middle of your bladder) is best as the first bit of your urine that passes may be contaminated with bacteria from the skin.
Prior to doing an MSU test, please read the actions points as follows:
Wash you hands and genitals WOMEN – hold open your labia (entrance to the vagina)
MEN – Pull back your foreskin
Pass some urine into the toilet, then without stopping the flow of urine, catch your urine in the sterile bottle/container provided
Finish passing the rest of your urine in the toilet
You do not need to fill the bottle to the top, any amount is better than none
Avoid touching any part of your genitals with the bottle/container, as this will increase the risk of contamination
Put the cap back the sample bottle/container
MAKE SURE YOU LABEL your sample, Including your NAME and DATE OF BIRTH. This is prevent your sample becoming misplaced from your requesting form when being sent to the laboratory.
