NHA Phlebotomy Certification Practice Exam

Which of the following pairings is incorrect with respect to urine characteristics?

1. Hemolyzed and red

2. Icteric and yellow

3. Fasting and cloudy

4. Lipemic and cloudy

The correct answer is: Fasting and cloudy

Fasting urine typically does not present as cloudy. Instead, it is usually clear or pale yellow, reflecting a well-hydrated state. Cloudiness in urine can indicate the presence of substances such as bacteria, crystals, or cells, which are not commonly associated with fasting. During a fasting state, the urine may be more concentrated, leading to a darker yellow hue, but it should not be cloudy unless there’s an underlying issue. For the other pairings: hemolyzed urine would indeed appear red due to the presence of red blood cells breaking down. Icteric urine displays a yellowish coloration because of the increased bilirubin levels often associated with liver disorders. Lipemic urine, on the other hand, appears cloudy due to the presence of high levels of lipids or fats. Understanding these characteristics can help in interpreting urine tests effectively during a phlebotomy procedure.