Stool Collection Instructions

How to Collect Stool Sample

• Containers will be provided by the nurse with patient label. Double check your correct name on label before leaving the clinic.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Ensure hands are dry to avoid ruining stool sample.
• Wear protective gloves provided.
• Urinate first and then start collecting stool samples. Do not urinate while passing stool.
• Wrap Kitchen paper towel over the toilet bowl to catch the stool. Lift up the toilet seat and wrap a large sheet of kitchen paper towel over top. Then, press into the very center of the towel to make an indent that’ll collect your stool. If it does not seem super secure, hold it in place with some tape. Transfer the required amount into the container.

• Use the spoon or spatula that comes with the container to put the required amount of stool into the container, then close it securely. Tighten the lid of the container.
• Write date and time of collection.
• Place the sample container in the biohazard bag.
• Discard gloves into the yellow waste bin (if in the hospital)
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
• Submit the sample in the lab within 2 Hours of collection.
• Sample to be refrigerated if unable to submit in lab within 2 Hours of collection.

For Pediatric Patients:

• There should be no creams or ointments on your child’s bottom. However, if your child has diaper rash, it is okay to use cornstarch, petroleum jelly (Vaseline®), or Resinol ®. These products will not affect the test.
• The stool must not mix with pee (urine).
• Do not collect the stool from the toilet.

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Frequently Asked Questions