24-HOUR URINE COLLECTION, CHILDREN

The test is used for the investigation of kidney diseases and metabolic diseases, among other things. The consistency of urine changes during the day, which is why the collection period lasts 24 hours.

Changes in urine during storage

Changes occur in urine during storage. They are a result of chemical reactions and bacterial effects. Make sure to seal the collecting containers tightly during and after collection.

If possible, store them in a cool place (+2ºC - +8ºC).

The urine collection method depends on the urination method

A child may urinate directly in the collecting container if they can do it. Infants urinate in a potty, from which the urine is poured in the collecting container.

When collecting urine from a potty, make sure to wash it first with washing-up liquid and rinse it well. If the urine contains stools, the collection has to start from the beginning.

From very small children, samples are collected in a urine bag at the children’s ward.

Start of collection

Have your child empty their bladder at the start of collection. This urine is not collected. Write down the time of the start of collection:

 _____ /_____ 20 _____ at  _____ . _____ .

Collect all urine excreted after this point into the collecting container. If one container is not enough, start collecting into a second one.

End of collection

The child must empty their bladder for the last time exactly 24 hours after the start of collection. This is the last batch of urine to be collected. The sample collection ends here. Write down the time of the end of collection:

_____ /_____ 20 _____ at _____ . _____ .

Wipe the outer surface of the collecting container dry.

The name label is necessary for identifying the sample

Stick a label on to the container. Write on it:

• the child’s name
• the child’s social security number
• start and end of collecting (dates and times to an accuracy of one minute)

Store the container in a cool place until the next morning.

Deliver the sample to the laboratory as soon as possible.

Further information

For more information, please contact the customer service of Fimlab Laboratoriot Oy, tel. 010 808 515 on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.