Question

Specimen preservation and storage: Unpreserved urine specimens can be stored at 4℃ for not more than _____ ____.

a) 12 hours
b) 24 hours
c) 48 hours
d) 72 hours

Answer 1

Unpreserved urine specimens can be stored at 4℃ for no more than 24 hours to avoid bacterial overgrowth and maintain sample integrity for testing.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question pertains to the topic of specimen preservation and storage in a biological context, specifically relating to the storage conditions of unpreserved urine specimens. While bacterial cultures and medical specimens can be stored at ultra-low temperatures for long-term preservation, the query is about the short-term storage of urine samples at 4℃. It's important to note that at this temperature, urine samples should not be stored for extended periods due to the risk of bacterial overgrowth and degradation of the sample. Unpreserved urine specimens can generally be stored at 4℃ for no more than 24 hours. After this period, the accuracy of any tests conducted may be compromised. Placing food or specimens in a refrigerator does not kill bacteria; it only slows their growth.