How to collect a 24-hour urine protein sample

The collection method for 24-hour urine protein mainly includes the following steps: 1. Prepare a container: Prepare a clean, sterile, corrosion-resistant plastic bucket with a lid (a 3-liter capacity bucket is recommended for light protection during storage). 2. Determine the time frame: Select a fixed period, such as from 7:00 AM one day to 7:00 AM the next day, to ensure complete collection of all urine produced over 24 hours. 3. Begin collection: On the first day at 7:00 AM, after waking up, empty the bladder completely. Collect all subsequent urine into the prepared container until the final urination at 7:00 AM the next morning, which should also be included in the total volume. 4. Storage and submission for testing: After collection, mix all the urine thoroughly and retain 5–10 mL in a standard urine tube for submission to the hospital laboratory for analysis. Report the total urine volume to the laboratory. During the collection process, care should be taken to avoid contamination with feces or other impurities. Female patients should avoid collecting samples during menstruation. Additionally, maintain a light diet and avoid high-protein foods that may affect test results.