Examination of a patient’s urine can consolidate many clinical findings. It is therefore essential for nurses to understand the basic components of urine and to comprehend the significance of...

Examination of a patient’s urine can consolidate many clinical findings. It is therefore essential for nurses to understand the basic components of urine and to comprehend the significance of increasing levels of certain waste or by-products and appreciate the importance of identifying substances that should not be found within the urine. Complete the following exercise before continuing: Construct a list of what you would expect to find within the urine There are many different types of quick and easy to use test sticks or strips that enable the user to analyse a urine sample (urinalysis); identify the type used on your placements and read the instruction sheet that accompanies the test strips. This will provide you with essential information regarding obtaining a correct reading and will explain which substances that particular test strip can be used to identify. Add the leaflet to your developing portfolio and learn the significance of each potential finding