Skip to main content

Two Kidneys

For appointment
  • Phone : 02 4321 0555
  • Fax : 02 4321 0125
Make Appointment
Assignment of Benefit

Patient Information

24‑Hour Urine Collection

A 24‑hour urine test measures substances your kidneys filter over a full day. Accurate collection is essential for reliable results.
 
Why this test is done
Your doctor may request this test to assess:
  • Kidney function
  • Protein loss
  • Salt, mineral, or hormone levels
  • Kidney stone risk
 
What you need
  • A large collection container (provided by the laboratory)
  • A clean container to urinate into (optional)
  • A cool place to store the sample (refrigerator or esky with ice)

 

 
How to collect your 24‑hour urine
    • When you wake up, empty your bladder into the toilet.
    • Do not collect this first urine.
    • Note the time – this is your start time.
    • Every time you urinate, collect it and pour it into the large container.
    • Include any urine passed overnight.
    • Keep the container cold at all times.
    • At your start time the next day, empty your bladder and add this urine to the container.
    • This completes the 24‑hour collection.

 

 
Important points
  • Do not miss any urine. If you forget a sample, you must start again on another day.
  • Keep the container sealed and refrigerated throughout.
  • Avoid contamination with stool or toilet paper.
  • Continue your usual diet and medications unless your doctor advises otherwise.
  • Return the completed collection to the laboratory as soon as possible after finishing.

 

 
When to contact the clinic
If you are unsure about the process or have difficulty completing the collection, please phone the practice for advice.