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Urine Osmolality - Urine Osmolality Test
Overview & Description
A urine osmolality test measures the osmolality, or concentration of particles, in a person's urine. It provides information about the body's ability to balance fluids and other substances.
Who is a candidate for the test?
A urine osmolality test is done when fluid balance or kidney problems are suspected.
How is the test performed?
A mid-stream, or clean-catch, urine sample is required for this test. First, the entire area around the urethra should be washed off to prevent contamination of the sample. Then, a person should:
The container should be covered and brought to the healthcare provider or lab for testing.
Preparation & Expectations
What is involved in preparation for the test?
Since test preparations vary, a person should ask a healthcare provider for specific instructions.
Results and Values
What do the test results mean?
Normally, urine has an osmolality of 50 to 1,400 mOsm/kg H20 (milliosmoles per kilogram of water).
Abnormally high osmolality may be a sign of:
Abnormally low osmolality may be a sign of:
Attribution
Author:David T. Moran, MD
Date Written:
Editor:Coltrera, Francesca, BA
Edit Date:05/31/00
Reviewer:Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
Date Reviewed:09/20/01
Sources
Tabers Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary, F.A.Davis, 1993
Illustrated Guide to Diagnostic Tests, Springhouse, 1998
Mosby's Manual of Diagnostic and laboratory Tests, Kathleen Pagana and Timothy Pagana, 1998