For testing forwarded to a reference lab, ordering provider should instruct patient using link provided.

Random or timed urine collection accepted. No preservative necessary. For heavy metal urine testing, urine must be collected in a metal free container with plastic lid. For timed urine collections, collect all urine in a 24-hour urine container. Add "Refrigerate" sticker to 24-hour container. Prior to random urine collection, obtain a metal free urine cup from UWHC Lab Client Services at (608) 263-7060.

For 24-hour urine test the collection period must be within 22-26 hours. Collection period starts after first void of the period. It is very important to refrigerate specimen during and after the collection. Indicate the date and time collection started and date and time collection finished. If questions about collection process or container does not have instructions attached, call (608) 263-7060 for assistance.

Patient instructions available at www.uwhealth.org. Search for 24-hour urine collection or UWH#4339.

Mix urine well and note volume and period. Transport 50 mL aliquot on coolant pack to UWHC Hospital Laboratory along with volume and period information. Aliquot container must have plastic lid for heavy metal testing.

After specimen collection is completed, transport entire specimen to UWHC Hospital Laboratory. Transport with coolant pack. If transport is delayed, keep specimen refrigerated.