In catheterized urine specimen collection, a urine sample is taken by inserting a catheter (a thin rubber tube) through the urethra into the bladder. The urine is obtained this way to avoid contamination, or if urine cannot be collected by the clean catch method.

A nurse or a trained technician may perform the test. First, the area around the opening of the urethra is thoroughly washed with an antiseptic solution. A well-lubricated catheter (a thin rubber tube) is gently inserted and advanced until it enters the bladder. The urine drains into a sterile container, and the catheter is removed.

On a very rare occasion, your health care provider may choose to collect a urine sample by inserting a needle directly into the bladder and draining the urine. However, this is necessary only to immediately screen for bacterial infection.

The urine is taken to a laboratory to determine what, if any, organisms are present in the urine. Other tests to determine the sensitivity of the organism to medications may be performed.

Do not urinate for at least an hour before the test. If there is no urge to urinate, you may be instructed to drink a glass of water 15-20 minutes before the test may be requested. Otherwise, there is no preparation for the test.

There is some discomfort. As the catheter is inserted, there may be a sensation of pressure. If a urinary tract infection is present, there may be a painful sensation when the catheter is inserted due to inflammation of the urethra.

The test is performed to obtain a sterile urine specimen in a person who cannot voluntarily urinate, when an infection is suspected in the urinary tract, or when urinary retention is suspected. Tests for organisms that cause infection are performed after the urine is collected. This can also help monitor ongoing infections.

Normal values depend on the test being performed. Normal results are reported as "no growth" and indicate an absence of infection.

A "positive" test indicates enough organisms detected to cause urinary tract infection.

There is a slight risk of perforation (hole) from the catheter and a risk of infection.

Rarely, a suprapubic aspirate may be performed if a sample cannot be obtained by other methods. In this method, a needle is inserted through the skin of the lower abdomen into the bladder to withdraw urine.