What is the maximum amount of urine that should be sent to an outside lab?

The maximum amount of urine that is typically sent to an outside laboratory for testing is 25 ml. This amount is generally considered sufficient for a variety of urine tests, including urinalysis and culture. Sending this volume ensures that the laboratory has enough specimen for accurate analysis while still being manageable for handling and transport.

Sending larger volumes, such as 50 ml or more, may not provide any additional benefit for most routine tests and could lead to unnecessary waste or complications in handling. On the other hand, smaller volumes like 10 ml or 5 ml may not provide enough sample for all required tests, potentially leading to issues with test accuracy or the need for repeat sampling. Therefore, 25 ml is considered a standard practice for urine specimens.