CNA Certification (Written Exam)Basic Nursing SkillsMedium
A nurse aide is collecting a clean-catch midstream urine specimen from a female resident. Which step is essential for an accurate specimen?
- ACollect the very first urine released into the container
- BHave the resident cleanse the perineal area front to back before voiding into the container mid-stream
- CCollect the specimen directly from the bedpan after the resident has finished voiding
- DAsk the resident to hold urine for several hours before collection
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Have the resident cleanse the perineal area front to back before voiding into the container mid-stream
For a clean-catch midstream specimen, the perineal area is cleansed front to back to reduce contamination, the initial urine stream is allowed to pass, and the middle portion of the stream is caught in the sterile container.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The first urine released should be allowed to pass, not collected, since it carries surface contaminants.
- C. Collecting from a bedpan after voiding increases contamination risk and defeats the purpose of a clean-catch.
- D. Holding urine for hours is not required and may not be feasible or accurate.
Clean-Catch Midstream Urine Specimen
A urine collection method that reduces contamination by cleansing the perineal area and collecting the middle portion of the urine stream.
- Cleanse front to back for females to prevent contamination
- Let the initial stream pass before collecting
- Collect specimen in a sterile container without touching the inside
Memory trick: 'Clean, catch the middle, keep it sterile'