Why is Clean-Catch Midstream Urine Used for a Urine Culture

Question

Why is clean-catch midstream urine used for a urine culture as opposed to a clean-catch urine?
A) The first portion of the urine flow washes contaminants from the urethra and the next portion of urine is more representative of the bladder.
B) The name was changed, but the procedure remains the same and the entire amount of urine from the bladder is cultured.
C) No urine is free from contamination, so just wipe the external genitalia and void into the cup.
D) Catheterized specimens are also called clean-catch midstream urine specimen.

Accepted Answer

Clean-catch midstream urine is used for urine cultures because the first portion of the urine flow may contain contaminating bacteria from the urethra, while the next portion is more representative of the bladder. The midstream technique involves collecting a sample of the urine after this initial flushing of the urethra, which reduces the risk of contamination and ensures a more accurate culture.