FFinalistSouthampton · 2027
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GMC #09/Diagnostic procedures taught Y2 onwards

Urine multi-dipstick test

Explain how to collect a midstream urine sample; test urine to detect abnormalities; perform a pregnancy test where appropriate.

Target · Perform independently0% ready

Do it yourself on a patient, with support available if you need it — the GMC’s highest new-grad level (“indirect supervision”).

Overview

A rapid screen — but interpret in context (asymptomatic bacteriuria is common in the elderly and shouldn’t be treated on dipstick alone).

Key numbers

  • Nitrites + leucocytes → likely UTI. Do not diagnose UTI on dipstick alone in the over-65s or catheterised — send an MSUNICE NG109 / PHE
  • Dipstick has limited value over 65; asymptomatic bacteriuria is common and should not be treatedNICE / PHE UTI

Indications

  • Suspected UTI
  • Haematuria, proteinuria
  • Assessing an unwell/septic patient
  • Screening in pregnancy

Equipment

Reagent dipstick (in date)Sterile MSU potGloves; timer

Step by step

Collect
  1. 1Explain a midstream clean-catch: clean, void the first part, then catch the mid-stream
  2. 2Use a fresh sample (test within a few hours; refrigerate otherwise)
Test
  1. 1Dip the strip fully, remove immediately, tap off excess
  2. 2Read each pad at the correct time against the colour chart
  3. 3Perform a β-hCG pregnancy test where relevant
Interpret
  1. 1Nitrites (Gram-negatives) + leucocytes → supports UTI
  2. 2Blood, protein → renal/urological workup
  3. 3Glucose/ketones → diabetes; send MSU for culture if infection suspected

Complications

  • False results from a stale/contaminated sample or misreading timing

OSCE tips

  • Read pads at the timed intervals — reading too early/late changes the result.
  • Don’t diagnose UTI on dipstick alone in the elderly/catheterised.
  • Offer a pregnancy test where the scenario allows.

Read

Urinalysis — OSCE GuideGeeky Medics

Sources & credits

Authored to UK finals standard and verified against UK guidance (NICE NG109 · NICE) and Geeky Medics OSCE guides . Southampton teaching materials © University of Southampton. Always follow current local policy.