Procedure for the
collection of a mid-stream
sample of urine (MSSU)
Information for you
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Procedure for the collection of a mid-stream sample
of urine (MSSU)
What is this test for?
Urine is a waste product produced by the kidneys
and collected in the bladder. Urine does not usually
contain a significant number of micro-organisms
(germs). However, if bacteria or yeast is introduced
into the urinary tract, they can multiply and a
urinary tract infection (UTI, bladder infection) can
develop.
How to collect the sample.
A mid-stream sample of urine is required because
the first part of your urine flow can be contaminated
with bacteria. Please follow these instructions
carefully:
• Ensure you have a sterile, screw-top container for
collecting the sample in.
• Wash your hands with soap and water before
beginning this procedure.
• Male patients should wash their penis.
• Female patients should wash their external
genitalia (intimate area), holding the labia (skin
folds) apart.
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• Position yourself over the toilet and begin to pass
urine into the toilet bowl (do NOT collect this part
of your urine flow).
• Collect the next part of your urine flow into the
sterile, red topped container and seal. Finish
urinating into the toilet bowl.
• Ensure lid is secured onto container then wash
hands thoroughly with soap and water.
What happens next?
• Urine samples are often tested at a clinic
appointment and the results are available
immediately. However, it is sometimes necessary
to send the sample to the laboratory to check for
infection. If you have been asked to provide an
additional sample for this purpose, it is important
to take to the clinic, GP surgery, or laboratory as
soon as possible to prevent any further growth of
organisms (germs). If you are unable to do this
straight away, store in a refrigerator until able to
do so.
• The results of this test can take up to 10 days to
reach your GP.
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Last reviewed: May 2016
Leaflet reference: MIS16-083-CC/PIL16-0059