Understanding Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) test strips is essential for accurate and timely diagnosis of one of the most common bacterial infections. 

These compact diagnostic tools provide a quick and convenient way to detect the presence of specific compounds.

Some of those compounds are nitrites and leukocytes in urine, indicating a UTI’s likelihood. 

This guide will explore how to interpret the color changes on these test strips. 

It will empower individuals to proactively monitor their urinary health and seek appropriate medical attention when necessary. 

Understanding how to read UTI test strips can play a pivotal role in maintaining well-being and preventing complications associated with untreated infections.

Understanding UTI test strips

Urine test strips, also called urine dipsticks or UTI test strips, are multi-pad paper or plastic strips that change color when exposed to urine. 

Fact:
The chemical components in your urine that these pads react with include Leukocytes (white blood cells) and Nitrites, signs of a Urinary Tract Infection.

Materials you’ll need for testing UTI,

  1. UTI test strips
  2. Clean collection cup
  3. Timer or clock
  4. Properly labeled clean container for catching urine midstream

Step-by-step guide

Listed below is a step-by-step guide for you to be able to understand how to read UTI test strips, 

  • Wash Your Hands: Ensure your hands are clean before handling the UTI test strip to prevent contamination
  • Collect Urine Midstream: A midstream urine sample should be taken first. This reduces the amount of outside pollutants in the sample. Before collecting, make sure your genital area is clean, and use a clean collection cup
  • Prepare the Test Strip: Remove the UTI test strip from its container before using it. The reagent pads may degrade over time due to exposure to moisture, light, and air, producing unreliable findings
  • Dip the Strip: Dip the strip’s reagent pads into the urine sample. Make sure all the pads are soaked for a brief period. Don’t let your fingertips touch the pads, please
  • Remove Excess Urine: To get rid of extra urine, gently touch the strip around the edge of the urine collection cup. Do not touch or wipe the strip’s pads
  • Wait for Reaction: Set a timer for the indicated response time, which is often between one and two minutes, then place the strip on a clean and dry spot. For exact timing, see the instructions that came with your test strip

Interpret the results

Following are the pointers while you are measuring the results of the test, 

Leukocytes (White Blood Cells)

Microscopic view of white blood cell (Leukocytes)
Microscopic view of white blood cells (Leukocytes)

Leukocytes are detected in your urine using one of the test pads on the strip. 

If the pad’s color changes, check it against the color wheel of the test strip.

Leukocytes are present when the color changes, which may indicate an infection.

Nitrites

The presence of nitrites, produced by bacteria that also produce nitrates and nitrites, is tested using a different pad. 

A UTI may be indicated by a nitrites test that is positive. 

Compare colors

Each reagent pad’s color should be compared to the test strip’s color chart. 

The varied levels of Leukocytes and Nitrites in your urine are represented in this chart.

Record your results

Observe the pads’ colors and note them along with their related interpretations. 

This information will be helpful if you need to discuss your findings with a healthcare practitioner.

Consult a healthcare professional

Test strips for UTIs offer helpful preliminary data but cannot replace a qualified medical diagnosis. 

Warning:
If you have symptoms like frequent urination, soreness, or discomfort, or if your test strip reveals positive results for Leukocytes and Nitrites, see a doctor for additional testing and treatment.

Conclusion

Test strips for UTIs provide an easy way to keep track of your urinary health at home. 

By following these instructions, you can accurately interpret the test strips and learn whether white blood cells and bacteria are present in your urine. 

Remember that even though these test strips offer useful information, effective management of urinary tract infections depends on receiving the right diagnosis and treatment from a healthcare provider.

Recommended Article:
Read the article UTI Treatment: Effective Strategies for Comfort and Relief.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I read my UTI test results?

Analyzing the outcomes of an at-home UTI test entails a simple process of matching the color displayed on the test pad of the test strip with the corresponding color chart provided within the home test kit. 

What color are positive UTI test strip results?

Regarding a positive test result, the Leukocyte test pad should exhibit a color range from beige to dark purple, while the Nitrite test pad should display a consistent hue ranging from pink to red.

What is a positive test strip for a UTI?

When the Leukocyte test shows a positive result alongside a positive Nitrite test, it strongly indicates the presence of a UTI. In the scenario where the Leukocyte test is positive but the Nitrite test is negative, this also suggests a potential UTI. 

Can a positive UTI test be wrong?

Using voided urinalysis as a diagnostic tool for urinary tract infections (UTIs) can lead to false-positive results due to several factors. Typically, samples are gathered from women experiencing various abdominal issues during triage, leading to a population with a low prevalence of UTIs.

Citations:
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