How to Identify Bacteria in Urine Sediment

Urine is usually tested for bacteria during diagnostic procedures to classify conditions such as urinary tract infections or renal disorders. One commonly observed indication of bacteria in the urine is the presence of blood. The only way to be certain and to provide adequate treatment is to test the urine. Urine is most commonly tested by using reagent test strips and it is something you can do at home.

Things You'll Need

• URS-10 Reagent Test Strips
• Sterile Cup
• protective gloves

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Instructions

• 1

  Prepare a sterile cup to hold the urine sample.

• 2

  Urinate in the toilet first, and then catch the urine midstream. This is done to eliminate the bacteria that is usually present in the urine from the surrounding skin surface. After the urine is collected, bring the urine to an area with a clean surface.

• 3

  Observe the smell and color of the urine and document your findings. This information can give signs that signify specific conditions [see reference].

• 4

  Immerse one reagent test strip in the urine and remove immediately to prevent dissolving of the regent pads on the strip.

• 5

  Remove excess urine from the strip by running the strip along the edge of the collection cup or by blotting the edge of the strip on a paper towel.

• 6

  Hold the strip horizontally to prevent the color from running or mixing.

• 7

  Compare the colors on the strip to the color chart on the strip container.

• 8

  Document your findings within two minutes. The color chart will guide you in identifying the levels of glucose, protein ph, leukocytes, nitrites, ketones, bilirubin, blood, urobilinogen and specific gravity that are present in the urine [see reference].

• 9

  Focus on the level of nitrites found in the urine. If the levels are elevated, then you have bacteria in the urine.