American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Histotechnician Certification Practice Exam

What is crucial to include when handling a 24-hour urine specimen?

1. The specific gravity of all samples

2. The total volume collected

3. The pH level of the sample

4. The time of first collection

The correct answer is: The total volume collected

When handling a 24-hour urine specimen, it is crucial to include the total volume collected because this information is essential for accurate assessment and interpretation of the urine test results. The total volume provides significant insight into various physiological and metabolic functions of the body and helps evaluate renal function. It allows for appropriate comparison with reference ranges and can indicate conditions such as dehydration, kidney dysfunction, or certain endocrine disorders. Other factors, while important in certain contexts, do not reflect the critical piece of information that the total volume does. The specific gravity and pH level can vary throughout the day and are often measured for particular diagnostic reasons, but they do not provide a comprehensive overview of the patient's condition on their own. The time of first collection, while relevant for confirming the protocol of 24-hour urine collection, does not provide direct information about the specimen's total output, making it less crucial than the total volume.