Your doctor has requested the collection of a stool sample to submit to the laboratory for diagnostic testing. Please read the instructions completely before collection.

1. Collect the stool specimen (bowel-movement only) in a wide mouth container, bedpan, or on a clean newspaper or plastic wrap placed over the toilet seat opening. This prevents the fecal specimen from falling into the toilet bowl. (Collection container does not have to be sterile, but must be clean).  DO NOT mix urine with the sample.
   Do not submit diapers for testing – remove fecal materials to a suitable container.


2. Collect enough stool into the screw-capped container provided, equivalent to at least the size of a golf ball, or if liquid, approximately 5 tablespoons. It is important to sample areas of the specimen, which are bloody, slimy, or watery. 


Using the collection spoon built into the lid of the tube                    
(or the wooden sticks, if supplied), place small scoopfuls
of stool from areas which appear bloody, slimy or watery                 
into the tube until the contents rise to the red line.  If the
stool is formed (hard), please try to sample small amounts
from each end and the middle.

3. Replace the cover and close the lid tightly.
4. Label the container with the patient’s name and the date of collection
5. Place the container in a plastic bag.
6. Wash your hands thoroughly.
7. Deliver to the laboratory as soon as possible. If specimen cannot be delivered immediately, refrigerate until delivery.

If you have questions regarding this process please contact our office.