Most urine samples are collected by urinating into a sterile container provided by the lab. Urine samples usually can be collected at any time, but a first morning sample may be requested because it is more concentrated and more likely to detect abnormalities.

Your test results are interpreted by your health care provider within the context of other tests that you have completed. These results are also measured against other factors like your medical history. The medical significance of a single result that is slightly high or slightly low may be difficult to determine. Hence, a health care provider may repeat a test, and why they may look at results from your previous tests

The results of some tests are intended to be interpreted when you have not eaten prior to your sample being collected. Examples include lipid panels and glucose tests. When fasting, drinking only water is permitted. If you do not fast, the results may be affected and/or may not be interpreted correctly.