Patient guidance has an important role to obtain high-quality urine samples. The right preparation for the patient to sample has a significant impact on the laboratory results correctness and the correct interpretation of the results. Written patient instruction functions to support oral guidance and to improve customer service and patient guidance quality.

The purpose of this study was to translate Finnish language urine sampling patient instruction into Thai language. The patient instruction is based on the NordLab’s currently active Finnish-language instruction. The objectives are to develop, serve and enhance the guidance of Thai speaking customers in laboratory studies and to help laboratory employees to guide Thai-speaking customers. As the number of Thai language population increases through immigration and each year there is an increasing number of berry pickers who arrive with tourist visa, the need for the Thai language instruction is necessary. Patient instructions in the urine sampling written in patient native language will increase trust and understanding between the medical personnel and the patient, contribute to patient safety as well as improve the quality of laboratory services.

We received the thesis topic from Northern Finland central laboratory federation, NordLab, whose laboratories Thai language patient instruction in the urine sampling will be used. The goal was to make a clear and high-quality patient instruction, from which Thai speaking customers will receive useful information about how urine sample should be given in the right way.

The work key concepts are oral and written patient guidance, cultural differences between Finland and Thailand as well as differences between Thai and Finnish urine sampling patient instructions. The quality and reliability of Thai language urine sampling instruction is ensured by a controlled survey. The results of the survey showed that the patients were satisfied with the written instructions sheet and considered it useful.

Further research topics could be the opportunities to research the practical experience of Thai language urine sampling patient instructions or to develop other patient instructions in Thai language or other languages for use of NordLab. Research could also be the experience of Thai speaking customers about laboratory services.