What type of urine specimen is most commonly collected for routine urinalysis?

The random urine specimen is commonly collected for routine urinalysis primarily due to its convenience and practicality. Since it can be obtained at any time of the day without any specific timing requirements, it is often the easiest type of specimen for patients to provide. This allows for a broad assessment of various urinary components, including pH, protein, glucose, ketones, and signs of infection or disease.

In some cases, specific types of specimens, such as the first morning urine or the midstream urine, may be preferred for more targeted tests. The first morning urine is particularly concentrated, making it useful for detecting certain substances or conditions, while midstream urine collection helps minimize contamination. However, for a routine urinalysis, the random urine specimen serves as a reliable representation of the patient's urine at any point, making it the standard choice in many clinical settings.