The test method consists of immersing the urine test strip completely in a well mixed sample of urine for a short period of time,then extracting it from the container and supporting the edge of the strip over the mouth of the container to remove excess urine.The strip is then left to stand for the time necessary for the reactions to occur (usually 1 to 2 minutes), and finally the colors that appear are compared against the chromatic scale provided by the manufacturer.
An improper technique can produce false results, for example, leukocytes and erythrocytes precipitate at the bottom of the container and may not be detected if the sample is not properly mixed, and in the same way, if an excess of urine remains on the strip after it has been removed from the test sample, may cause the reagents to leak from the pads onto adjacent pads resulting in mixing and distortion of the colors. To ensure that this does not occur it is recommended the edges of the strip are dried on absorbent paper.![]()
