NHA Phlebotomy Certification Practice Exam

Which component is assessed alongside the physical appearance of urine?

1. Specific gravity

2. Odor

3. pH level

4. Protein content

The correct answer is: Odor

Assessing the odor of urine is an integral part of the evaluation process when analyzing the physical appearance of urine. The odor can provide valuable clues regarding the individual's health and potential metabolic processes. For example, a sweet or fruity odor may suggest the presence of ketones, indicating diabetes or starvation, while a foul-smelling urine may be associated with infections. While specific gravity, pH level, and protein content are all important measurements that help determine various aspects of urine's chemical composition, they are typically assessed through laboratory tests rather than being part of the initial physical examination. The odor, on the other hand, is directly related to the physical characteristics examined during a urinalysis, making it a crucial component to consider alongside other visual indicators like color and clarity.