The 24-hour urine test is ideal for assessing the functional status and performance of the kidneys. Here, creatinine clearance (the kidney's drainage) is assessed and protein output (proteinuria and microalbuminuria) is measured.
In patients who are on haemodialysis, a 24-hour urine study is not necessary. In patients who have not started haemodialysis this test is routinely done for both donor and recipient. To start collecting 24-hour urine you need a clean large container (3-4 litres).
It is very important to collect every drop of urine you pass so that the collection itself is accurate.
It starts in the morning when you wake up from sleep (say at 7:00 am) with the first urine after waking up being flushed down the toilet, and then each urination is collected in the container until the next morning at 7:00 am inclusive.
Store the urine you collect in a cool, dark room. Drink plenty of water, avoid coffee, cola and gas drinks.
Bring the urine to the hospital immediately the next morning.