Question

To prevent a urine specimen from becoming an unreliable pH sample, the specimen should be:

Select one:
a. always refrigerated immediately upon collection
b. exposed to air for slightly more than 1 hour
c. tested within 1 hour of collection
d. allowed time for the urea to convert to ammonia in order to decrease the pH
e. allowed to rise to room temperature after refrigeration and before testing so that any casts may break down to release protein

Answer 1

To preserve a urine sample for reliable pH testing, it should be tested within 1 hour of collection to prevent changes in pH caused by chemical reactions, such as urea converting to ammonia.

Step-by-step explanation:

To maintain the reliability of a urine pH sample, it should be tested within 1 hour of collection. Urine pH can vary significantly due to the buffering action of bicarbonate, dihydrogen phosphate ion, or ammonia in the urine, and because urea can convert to ammonia over time, changing the pH. Quick testing helps prevent such changes from occurring, ensuring a more accurate reading. It's important to also note that if the urine cannot be tested within an hour, refrigeration can help preserve its integrity until testing.