: Hemoglobin, Urine, Qualitative Strip
: This test uses a urine test strip (dipstick) to detect hemoglobin in a urine sample. Hemoglobin in urine can be a sign of red blood cells or free hemoglobin entering the urine.
[": A urine hemoglobin strip test is a quick screening tool that checks for blood-related proteins in urine and may prompt further testing."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 5794-3
- Short code
- Hgb Ur Ql Strip
- Synonyms
- Hgb Ur Ql Strip
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 12
- Ref high
- 17.5
- Critical range
- 7 N/A – 20 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- test-strip
- CPT
- 85018
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003004
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
: What the Test Measures
: The strip contains a reagent pad that reacts to hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein normally found inside red blood cells. When hemoglobin is present in urine, it can indicate that red blood cells have leaked into the urine or that red blood cells have broken apart and released free hemoglobin.
: How the Sample Is Collected
: A urine sample is collected in a clean container, usually as a midstream catch. The test strip is briefly dipped into the urine and read after a short wait, often by comparing the pad color to a chart or by an automated urine analyzer.
: What a Result May Mean
: A positive or abnormal result suggests hemoglobin was detected in the urine. This can happen with urinary tract irritation, stones, infection, strenuous exercise, or other conditions. A negative result generally means hemoglobin was not detected. Results are usually interpreted together with other urine tests and the person's symptoms.
: Limits of the Test
: A urine strip test is a screening test, not a diagnosis. It can be affected by factors such as vitamin C, sample concentration, and timing of collection. A positive result often leads to repeat testing or microscopy to confirm and clarify the finding.
Reference range
Adult males: 13.5-17.5 g/dL; Females: 12.0-16.0 g/dLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
: Hematuria (blood in urine) or hemoglobinuria can be a sign of infection, stones, injury, kidney conditions, or other disorders, and it may sometimes be harmless. The strip test helps flag people who need follow-up, but it does not identify the cause on its own, so providers combine it with symptoms, other urine findings, and sometimes imaging or blood tests.
Short name
: Urine Hemoglobin
Frequently asked questions
: Does a positive urine hemoglobin strip mean I definitely have a serious condition?
: Should I avoid any foods or medicines before this urine test?
: Can a urine hemoglobin test replace a blood test for anemia?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy