Component Task: Testing the Urine of a Pregnant Woman/Client for Sugar/Protein

This is a routine investigation carried out on clients during pregnancy, labour and puerperium. Midstream urine is obtained from clients in clean bottle for analysis.

Aims

·         Analyse urine sugar to rule out gestational diabetes

·         Analyse urine protein to rule out pre-eclampsia

Types

·         Urine dipsticks analysis

·         Urine analyser analysis (at the laboratory)

Requirements

·         Urine dipsticks

·         Pair of glove

·         Urine sample bottle

·         Urine

·         Catheter (if necessary)

·         Mackintosh apron

Steps

1.        Establish rapport (refer steps)

2.      Explain procedure (refer steps)

3.      Teach client on how to obtain midstream urine

4.      Pass urethral catheter to obtain urine sample where necessary

5.      Put on mackintosh apron

6.      Perform hand hygiene and wear gloves

7.       Read instructions on reagent bottle before use

8.      Note quantity, colour and sediments of urine sample

9.      Smell urine for odour and note (offensive, fishy, fruity/acetone smell etc.)

10.    Pick one strip of reagent and dip into urine

11.      Remove strip immediately and tap the edge of strip against side of urine container

12.    Measure specific gravity of urine

13.    Read PH. of urine

14.    Compare test area closely with the corresponding colour chart on bottle

15.    Dispose off and decontaminate used items

16.    Perform hand hygiene

17.    Record and report findings to Officer in-charge