Which type of specimen is typically used for routine urinalysis?

Routine urinalysis commonly involves the collection of a random specimen. This type of specimen is taken without any prior preparation or special instructions, making it convenient for both the patient and the laboratory. Random urine samples can provide a snapshot of the patient's health at a given moment and are used to assess factors such as color, clarity, pH, specific gravity, and the presence of substances like glucose or protein.

In contrast, a timed specimen or a 24-hour urine specimen entails specific timing and collection protocols, which are not typically required for a routine urinalysis. These types of specimens are used to measure levels of substances over a defined period for conditions that require more detailed analysis. Similarly, while a clean-catch midstream specimen is essential for certain tests to avoid contamination, routine urinalysis generally does not mandate this specific collection technique. Therefore, the random specimen stands out as the most practical and frequently utilized type for routine analyses.