What are the key components evaluated in a urinalysis?

The key components evaluated in a urinalysis are specific gravity, protein, and glucose. Specific gravity is important because it measures the concentration of particles in the urine, which can indicate hydration status or possible kidney issues. Protein in the urine can be a sign of kidney damage or disease, as healthy kidneys typically do not allow significant amounts of protein to pass into the urine. The presence of glucose in the urine could indicate high blood sugar levels, commonly associated with diabetes mellitus.

While the other choices mention important components, they do not encompass the primary focus of a basic urinalysis as effectively as the chosen answer. For instance, while urea is indeed a waste product present in urine, it is less commonly assessed in standard urinalysis compared to protein and glucose. Similarly, glucose and ketones suggest metabolic processes, while bilirubin may suggest liver dysfunction but is not a standard initial focus in routine urinalysis. Lastly, while electrolytes play a role in evaluating overall health, they are not typically part of the basic urinalysis evaluation. The selected answer accurately reflects the most critical components assessed during a standard urinalysis.