What is important to do immediately after collecting a urine specimen?

Transporting the urine specimen to the lab promptly is crucial because urine samples are often analyzed within a specific time frame to ensure accurate results. Delays in transportation can lead to changes in the urine composition, such as bacterial growth, changes in pH, or degradation of certain substances, which can potentially compromise the integrity of the sample. Timely transport helps maintain the sample's viability for testing and ensures that accurate diagnostic information is available for the patient’s care.

While labeling the specimen is also important to prevent any mix-ups, the priority immediately after collection is ensuring that the sample is handled quickly and efficiently to maintain its quality for subsequent analysis.