Dipstick tests are simple diagnostic tools used to analyze various fluids, most commonly urine. They consist of a thin, plastic strip with chemical pads that change color when they come into contact with specific substances. These tests can quickly provide information about a person's health by detecting conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, or urinary tract infections. To use a dipstick test, a person dips the strip into the fluid and waits for a few seconds. Afterward, they compare the color changes on the strip to a reference chart provided with the test. This allows for easy interpretation of results without the need for complex laboratory equipment.