clean-catch specimen

clean-catch specimen,

a urine specimen that is as free of bacterial contamination as possible without the use of a catheter. This type of specimen is needed to test urine for culture and sensitivity. The nurse instructs the client on the method. After appropriate cleansing of the external genitalia, the client begins the urinary stream, allowing the initial portion to escape. The initial stream cleans or flushes the urethral orifice and meatus of resident bacteria. During the middle portion of voiding, the client collects the specimen. The procedure is easiest while using toilet facilities.