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Kidney, Bladder and Genitals Tests and Procedures

Urine Culture: Adult Assisting a Male Child

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Adult Assisting a Male Child

Explanation | Supplies | Procedure | Contact us

What is a urine culture?

A urine culture is a test that is done to see if there are bacteria (germs) that cause infection in the urine. A "clean catch" urine specimen (one that has no outside bacteria in it) is necessary for an accurate urine culture. In order for the specimen to be "clean," careful cleansing of the area is important.
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Supplies

  • 3 soapy wipes for cleansing
  • 1 wet wipe for rinsing
  • 1 sterile collection container (specimen cup)

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Procedure

  1. Wash your hands well with soap and water.
  2. Place supplies so they are within reach of the toilet.
  3. Remove the lid from the specimen cup and place it flat side down. Make sure you don't touch the inside of the lid or cup.
  4. Gently grasp your child's penis and pull back his foreskin if he is uncircumcised. Pick up one of the soapy wipes and make a stroke around the urethral opening (end of the penis) toward his stomach. Discard the wipe.
  5. Repeat this procedure with each of the two remaining soapy wipes, discarding each after one use.
  6. Repeat using the wet wipe to rinse the penis.
  7. Pick up the specimen cup and have it ready. Position your child in front of the toilet, and ask him to urinate. If he has difficulty, try turning on the water faucet.
  8. Once the stream begins in the toilet, position the cup under the stream. Try to hold the cup close enough so the urine doesn't splash, but not so close that the child's penis touches the cup. Take the cup away when it's about 1/3 full (don't let it overflow), and let your child finish urinating.
  9. Place the lid tightly on the container. Remember not to touch the inside of the cup or lid with your fingers. If uncircumcised, pull the foreskin forward after the child has finished urinating.
  10. If taking a sample at the hospital
    Set the cup down in a safe place. Help your child dress and wash both your and his hands. Leave the urine cup in the bathroom.

    If taking a sample at home
    The sample may be refrigerated but must be taken to the lab in less than 2 hours from the time of the collection.

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Contact us

For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.

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Revised 9/93, 2/96, 8/98, 10/04, 9/06