Urine culture - catheterized specimen

What is a Urine Culture - Catheterized Specimen?

A Urine Culture-Catheterized Specimen is a urine test used to determine the cause of a urinary tract infection. The test is conducted by collecting a sample of urine directly from the bladder or urethra using catheter. This test is important as it is the most reliable way to diagnose the cause of a urinary tract infection and to ensure appropriate treatment.

What is the purpose of Urine Culture - Catheterized Specimen?

Urine Culture-Catheterized Specimen is a lab test used to help to diagnose and evaluate the cause of a urinary tract infection. This test is performed to help identify the presence of bacteria, fungi, parasites, or viruses in the urine.

How is the sample collected for testing?

Urine Culture-Catheterized Specimen is typically collected at a doctor’s office. The doctor uses a sterile catheter, which is inserted into the bladder via the urethra, to collect the sample. After the sample is collected it is sent to the laboratory for testing.

Preparation

No preparation is needed for this test. It is important that the patient does not urinate prior to the test in order to ensure an accurate result.

Procedure

The procedure for Urine Culture-Catheterized Specimen is fairly simple. The doctor or healthcare provider will use a sterile catheter, usually made of plastic or rubber, that is inserted through the urethra and into the bladder. The catheter is used to collect a sample of urine directly from the bladder. This sample is then sent to the lab for testing.

Types

• Therapeutic Urine Culture- A therapeutic urine culture is used to help diagnose and treat a urinary tract infection. It is typically used when other tests, such as a urine dipstick test, are not reliable.
• Fungal Urine Culture- Fungal urine cultures are used to detect the presence of fungal organisms in the urine. This type of test is usually used to diagnose a fungal infection in the bladder or kidneys.
• Viral Urine Culture- A viral urine culture is used to detect the presence of a viral infection in the urine. This type of test may be used when other tests, such as a urine dipstick test, are not reliable.

Risks

There are few risks associated with a Urine Culture-Catheterized Specimen. There is a small risk of infection when the catheter is inserted and a risk of discomfort. There is also a rare risk of bladder spasms or trauma to the bladder.

Why Would Someone Need a Urine Culture - Catheterized Specimen?

Urine Culture-Catheterized Specimen is used to detect the presence of bacteria, fungi, viruses, or parasites in the urine to help diagnose a urinary tract infection. This test can also help identify which bacteria may be causing the infection so that proper treatment can be administered.

When is Urine Culture - Catheterized Specimen Ordered?

Urine Culture-Catheterized Specimen is often ordered when symptoms of a urinary tract infection are present, such as burning or pain during urination, blood in the urine, an increase in urinary frequency, urgency, and urgency in voiding, or an abnormal odor or appearance to the urine. This test may also be ordered if other tests, such as a urine dipstick test, are not reliable or if the doctor suspects a fungal or viral infection.