Final answer:
The normal specific gravity of urine is between 1.010 and 1.030, measuring solute concentration relative to pure water. Deviations from this range can indicate health issues, with urine osmolality offering a more precise assessment of kidney function.
Step-by-step explanation:
The normal specific gravity of urine typically ranges between 1.010 and 1.030. This range indicates the concentration of solutes dissolved in the urine compared to pure water, which has a specific gravity of 1.0. Variations from this range can suggest different medical conditions. For instance, a higher specific gravity can result from conditions that cause dehydration, such as diarrhea or an infection, while a lower specific gravity might indicate renal failure or other issues that dilute the urine.
Specific gravity is measured using devices like a urinometer and is impacted by temperature changes; however, urine osmolality is a more precise method of measuring solute concentration. It can range from 50-1200 mOsmol/L H2O. The presence of leukocytes detected through leukocyte esterase can indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI).
Assessing urine osmolality is also critical in diagnosing and managing various renal disorders. It involves a 24-hour urine collection following dietary and fluid intake specifications. Normally, an increased protein diet and restricted fluid intake at night is advised before testing.