To ensure proper stability of the specimen, these guidelines should be followed:
- Ensure the transport container lid is secure and leak-resistant (this is especially important if the specimen will be sent to the laboratory through a pneumatic tube system).
- Utilize urine containers that are made of break-resistant plastic instead of glass.
- Verify that the specimen has been properly labeled, using at least two forms of positive patient identification (e.g., full name and hospital or medical record number or full name and date of birth).
- Verify that the time of collection is documented (urinalysis specimens must be analyzed within two hours of collection).
