URI MLS: Urinalysis Ch. 5 (Chemical Examination) questions with correct answers

Describe the proper technique for performing reagent strip testing. - Answer •Strips have chemical pads on plastic strip •Compare the color change on pads w/in required time frame •Dip strip into well-mixed specimen at room temp •Remove excess urine on edge of cup •Blot edge of strip on absorbent pad •Wait req time •Read in good lighting List four causes of premature deterioration of reagent strips, and describe how to avoid them. - Answer •Moisture •Volatile chemicals •Heat •Light HOW TO AVOID: strips packaged in opaque containers w/ desiccant, stored at room temp, and only opened right before use and bottle closed right after. •Do not touch the pads. •Visually inspect before use List five quality-control procedures routinely performed with reagent strip testing. - Answer •Run positive/negative controls once/24hrs or per shift •Correlate chemical readings to each other + physical/microscopic readings •Run controls when new jar open, results are questionable, or concern over integrity