Each pad measures one analyte and the results can be read either visually, with reference to a color chart on the strip container, or with an instrument. With instrumentation, each strip is processed manually and then placed in or on the instrument to be read, interpreted and reported on a paper tape. All dipstick manufacturers market instruments, most offering a series of instruments with increasing capacity and throughput.
     The ten reaction strip provides semi-quantitative data for Glucose, Bilirubin, Ketone, Specific Gravity, Blood, pH, Protein Urobilinogen, Nitrite and Leukocyte esterase. The strip is designed to be briefly and fully immersed in room temperature, fresh or properly stored urine. Following removal, excess urine is blotted and each of the pads is read after the appropriate lapse of time. Using consistent technique, the results can be accurate and reproducible. An important element in the quality assurance of dipstick urine chemistry testing is the daily use of normal and abnormal level controls. Recovery of assigned values, either visual or instrument-read, allows confidence in the testing procedure, the urine dipsticks and the instrument.