Which statement about the collection of a 24-hour urine sample is incorrect?

While staying hydrated is generally important for overall health and could contribute to more accurate test results, it is not a strict requirement for the collection of a 24-hour urine sample. The focus during the collection period is primarily on accurately collecting all urine produced in the 24-hour span, rather than monitoring hydration levels specifically.

Maintaining hydration may inadvertently influence the concentration of certain substances in the urine, so patients are often advised to collect samples as they normally would, without deliberately altering their hydration status.

The other statements are accurate regarding the collection of a 24-hour urine sample. Discarding the final voiding is necessary because it ensures that only the urine produced during the defined period is included. Ensuring the entire collection period is maintained is crucial for consistency and accuracy in results, as is monitoring the specimen temperature, which can provide information about the integrity of the sample. These factors help avoid any discrepancies in the test results.