The reagent strips must be handled and stored properly in order to ensure that results are accurate. The following precautions should be observed:

• Store strips according to the manufacturer's recommendation.
• DO NOT expose strips to moisture, direct sunlight or volatile fumes. Remove only enough strips for immediate use and immediately recap the bottle.
• Avoid contamination of test strips. Do not touch the test areas with fingers or do not lay the test strips directly on the workbench.
• DO NOT use discolored strips. Compare the color of the unused strip to the negative area on the color chart provided by the company. The color should be similar.
• Check the expiration date. Re-label the container with a revised expiration date if the manufacturer states a shortened usage period once the container has been opened.
• Reagent strips must be tested periodically (frequency defined by the laboratory) for clinical reactivity with normal and abnormal urine controls. Urine controls are available commercially or may be prepared and preserved in-house.