Measurement of Urine Temperature as an Alternative to Observed Urination in a Narcotic Treatment Program

Abstract

Upper and lower limits have been determined for the temperature of freshly voided urine. When specified procedures are followed, more than 99% of measurements lie between 32.5 and 36.7°C. This provides a basis for monitoring urine collection in a drug abuse treatment program in a manner that does not invade privacy. The method is not foolproof, but it provides sufficient control if there are no penalties for illicit drug use so that there is no strong incentive to turn in a fraudulent urine sample.