What is the best technique for obtaining a sterile urine specimen from an indwelling urinary catheter?

A) Use antiseptic wipes to cleanse the meatus prior to obtaining the sample.
B) Briefly disconnect the catheter from the drainage tube to obtain the sample.
C) Withdraw urine through the port using a needleless access device.
D) Obtain the urine specimen directly from the collection bag.

Question

Salma Othman · Accepted Answer

Final Answer : C, Explanation :  The best technique for obtaining a sterile urine specimen from an indwelling urinary catheter is to withdraw urine through the port using a needleless access device. This method decreases the risk of introducing bacteria from the surrounding environment and prevents contamination of the specimen. It is important to use a sterile technique when accessing the port to minimize the risk of infection. Using antiseptic wipes to cleanse the meatus does not ensure sterility, and briefly disconnecting the catheter from the drainage tube may introduce bacteria into the specimen. Obtaining the urine specimen directly from the collection bag may also introduce bacteria into the sample.

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