Collecting: Stool Specimen

COLLECTING

STOOL SPECIMEN

WHY DO WE EXAMINE STOOL? STOOL IS COLLECTED to determine the presence of blood, ova and parasites, bile, fat, pathogens, or substances such as ingested drugs. Gross examination of stool characteristics, such as color, consistency, and odor, can reveal such conditions as gastrointestinal bleeding and steatorrhea (excess fat in feces).

WHAT YOU’LL NEED? Specimen container with lid Gloves Two tongue blades Paper towel or paper bag Bedpan or portable commode Two patient-care reminders (for timed specimens) Lab request form and lab biohazard transport bag

HOW IT’S DONE 1. Perform hand washing

2. Explain the procedure to the patient and significant others.

HOW IT’S DONE 3. Tell the patient to notify you when he has the urge to defecate. Have him defecate into a clean, dry bedpan or commode. Instruct him not to contaminate the specimen with urine or toilet tissue.

HOW IT’S DONE 4. Put gloves on

HOW IT’S DONE 5. Using a tongue blade, transfer the most representative stool specimen from the bedpan to the container, and cap the container. If the patient passes blood, mucus, or pus with the stool, include this with the specimen

HOW IT’S DONE 6. Wrap the tongue blade in a paper towel and discard it. Remove and discard your gloves, and wash your hands thoroughly to prevent cross-contamination.