Ordering Guidance

This test is preferred for the determination of nickel exposure, but serum concentrations can be used to verify an elevated urine concentration. For more information see NIS / Nickel, Serum.

Necessary Information

24-Hour volume (in milliliters) is required.

Specimen Required

Patient Preparation: High concentrations of gadolinium and iodine are known to interfere with most metal tests. If gadolinium- or iodine-containing contrast media has been administered, a specimen should not be collected for 96 hours.

Supplies: Urine Tubes, 10 mL (T068)

Container/Tube: Plastic, 10-mL urine tube or clean, plastic aliquot container with no metal cap or glued insert

Specimen Volume: 0.5 mL

Collection Instructions:

1. Collect urine for 24 hours.

2. Refrigerate specimen within 4 hours of completion of 24-hour collection.

See Metals Analysis Specimen Collection and Transport for complete instructions.

Additional Information: See Urine Preservatives-Collection and Transportation for 24-Hour Urine Specimens for multiple collections.