Question

1. What does the Specific Gravity (SG) in the urine dipstick tells you?

2. What are the causes of decreased SG in the urine? Explain. (1 mark)

Answer 1

1.A specific gravity test on urine compares urine density with water density. It allows the physicians to see the concentration of all the particles in the urine. It gives an idea of a person’s kidney function and hydration status.

To detect abnormalities, a dipstick - a thin plastic stick with strips of chemicals on it - is placed in the urine. The chemical strips change color if there are other substances or if their rates are above average, and it checks for acidity (ph).

2. Renal failure, pyelonephritis, diabetes insipidus, acute tubular necrosis, interstitial nephritis, and excessive fluid intake (e.g., psychogenic polydipsia) are associated with decreased specific gravity.