How should urine specimens be handled post-collection?

Handling urine specimens after collection is critical to ensure the integrity and reliability of the test results. The safest and most appropriate practice is to secure the specimens and transport them to the testing facility promptly. This minimizes the risk of contamination and degradation that can occur if the specimens are left at room temperature for an extended period.

Transporting the specimens ensures that they reach the laboratory under conditions that maintain their stability, which is vital for accurate testing. Proper handling includes using appropriate containers, labeling, and maintaining the required chain of custody to verify that the samples have not been compromised.

Storing specimens at room temperature or refrigerating them are not recommended practices for extended periods, nor is indefinite storage acceptable, as these conditions might compromise specimen integrity and accuracy of test results.