Urine Tests

Evidence  

https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=105822 

Michelle Pei Ling Chia, Intan Nor Chahaya Binti Shukor, Yee Chau Yen, Naganathan Kathiresan Pillai, Christina Gertrude Yap, Nowrozy Kamar Jahan. 

Good quality urine samples play a crucial role in establishing an early and accurate diagnosis of urinary tract infection in infants. Invasive methods are more reliable but cause pain and discomfort in infants as well as anxiety in clinicians and parents. The current available non-invasive methods are less efficient and produce low quality urine samples being less apprehensive in infants and parents. 

Education  

A urine test is a simple and helpful way for your healthcare team to check how your baby’s body is working and whether there might be an infection or other health concern. It involves collecting a small sample of your baby’s wee (urine) and sending it to the lab for testing. 

Urine tests are commonly used in the neonatal unit to check for things like: 

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) 

• Kidney function 

• Dehydration 

• How your baby’s body is processing certain medications or nutrients 

Babies in the neonatal unit, especially those who are premature or unwell, may need a urine test if: 

• They have signs of a possible infection 

• They are not feeding well or are losing weight 

• Their blood tests show changes that need further investigation 

• They have a fever or changes in behaviour 

• The medical team wants to monitor kidney health or medication levels 

Babies who are born prematurely often have kidney problems shortly after birth, called nephropathy (kidney disease) of prematurity. In most cases, the baby’s kidneys usually mature quickly after birth.  

There are a few different ways your baby’s urine can be collected. The method depends on your baby’s size, condition and the reason for the test. Some common ways include: 

• Clean catch: Waiting until your baby naturally wees and catching it in a small container. 

• Urine collection bag: A special bag is gently placed around your baby’s nappy area to collect urine. 

• Sterile collection: In some cases, a tiny sample might be taken using a small catheter or needle for a more accurate result. This is only done when necessary and by trained staff. 

Staff will always choose the safest and most appropriate method for your baby and will explain what to expect. 

Once the urine is collected, it is sent to the lab for testing. Some results may be ready quite quickly (within hours), while others may take a day or two. 

Empowerment 

Even small tests can feel overwhelming when your baby is in hospital. You are an important part of your baby’s care team, and your involvement makes a big difference. 

Ask questions - You have every right to understand what the test is for and what the results mean. 

If you’re feeling worried or just need someone to talk to, support is available. Speak to a nurse, social worker, or ask to connect with a Miracle Babies Support worker.   

Useful Links 

The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne – Fact Sheets  

https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Urine_tests/#  

Urine Sampling for Neonates – Victorian Agency for Health Information  

https://www.bettersafercare.vic.gov.au/clinical-guidance/neonatal/urine-sampling-for-neonates  

Miracle Babies Foundation 

https://www.miraclebabies.org.au/content/kidney-disease/gngw1c