What a standard dipstick urinalysis includes

Some strips also report bilirubin and urobilinogen. The exact test pads can vary by clinic or laboratory, so the printed report shows which markers were measured.

Nitrite and leukocyte esterase can support suspicion of inflammation or a bacterial urinary infection, but either may be absent despite symptoms. Blood can arise from infection, stones, menstruation, exercise or another urinary problem. Protein, glucose or ketones may prompt further assessment rather than establish a diagnosis on their own.

Acidity describes urine pH, while specific gravity reflects how concentrated or dilute the sample is. Medicines, hydration, collection technique and the time between collection and testing can influence several results.

Follow the collection instructions and, when asked, provide a clean-catch midstream sample: clean the area, begin urinating into the toilet, then collect urine without touching the inside of the container. Tell the clinician if you are menstruating or taking medicines or supplements that may colour urine.

A dipstick is a screening tool. Symptoms and unexpected findings may lead to microscopy, a urine culture, a repeat sample, blood tests or other assessment. Antibiotics are selected from the clinical picture and, when relevant, culture results; an abnormal strip alone does not determine treatment.

Arrange prompt medical assessment for painful urination, visible blood, fever, worsening lower abdominal discomfort or symptoms that persist. Seek urgent care for fever with pain in the back or side, repeated vomiting, confusion, marked weakness, inability to pass urine or very little urine, especially during pregnancy or with known kidney disease.

Ask which markers were abnormal, whether contamination could explain them, and whether the result fits your symptoms. Useful follow-up questions include whether you need a urine culture, a repeat clean-catch sample, kidney testing or a review of medicines and supplements.