<![CDATA[Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common health problem characterized by an increase in the number of leukocytes, erythrocytes, and bacteria in urine sediment. The accuracy of urine tests is greatly influenced by specimen handling, particularly sedimentation time, so delays in testing can potentially affect laboratory results and lead to misdiagnosis. This study aims to analyze the effect of sedimentation delay on the results of leukocyte, erythrocyte, and bacterial tests in the urine of patients with suspected UTI. The study used a quantitative design with a cross-sectional approach and was conducted in the laboratory of Buleleng Regional General Hospital. A total of 30 urine samples from patients suspected of having UTI were examined immediately after collection, after a 30-minute delay, and after a 60-minute delay. The data were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA test to assess the differences in results between examination times. The results showed that delays of up to 60 minutes did not significantly affect the number of leukocytes, erythrocytes, or bacteria in the urine sediment. These findings confirm that although immediate examination remains the standard, delays of up to one hour are acceptable without compromising the quality of laboratory results. Therefore, urine specimens need to be managed appropriately to ensure diagnostic accuracy, and laboratory policies need to take into account operational conditions in the care of patients with suspected UTI.]]>
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