What does a post-void residual urine test indicate?

A post-void residual urine test measures the amount of urine that remains in the bladder after a person has urinated. This test is important in evaluating urinary retention, which can occur when the bladder does not empty completely. If a significant volume of urine is left in the bladder post-void, it may suggest issues such as an obstruction, muscle weakness, or nerve problems affecting bladder function.

This test is pivotal in clinical settings because it helps healthcare professionals determine the underlying causes of urinary symptoms and direct further management. Understanding residual urine volume can significantly affect patient care, especially for those at risk of complications from urinary retention, such as bladder infections or kidney damage.

The other options, while related to urinary health, do not pertain to the specific measurement and implications of post-void residual urine. For example, urine color and odor relate to other factors but do not provide information about bladder emptying. The presence of kidney stones and urinary infections are diagnosed through different tests, such as imaging studies or urine cultures, rather than by assessing residual urine volume.