(ū″rĭ-năl′ĭ-sĭs)
[Pronunciation]
[″ + Gr. ana, apart, + lysis, a loosening]

Analysis of the urine.

See: urine

COLLECTION OF URINE
For a routine urinalysis, a voided specimen of urine in a clean container is usually sufficient. For culture, either a clean-catch or a catheterized specimen is required. For a clean-catch specimen, the individual cleanses the perineum or glans penis with soap and water or an antiseptic solution such as benzalkonium chloride before voiding. A midstream specimen of urine is then collected in a sterilized container. A catheterized specimen is obtained by passing a catheter into the bladder, using sterile technique.
See: suprapubic catheter

NOTE
A urine specimen may be obtained to test for excretion of drugs of abuse. In such cases, care must be taken to ensure that appropriate consent is obtained, that the specimen was produced by the individual, and that there was no opportunity for the specimen to be diluted.