Specimen Requirements

Keep the specimen refrigerated until it is placed into the collection tube.The stool specimen must be placed into the collection tube within 24 hours of collection.

Collect specimen as follows using special collection kit available from laboratory:

1. Unscrew purple cap from specimen collection tube. Do not pour out the liquid.

2. Poke spiral applicator into stool at 6 different sites. Use only enough fecal material to cover the tip of applicator.  Do not clump, scoop, or fill tube.

3. Screw applicator back into the tube and secure tightly. 

4. Label specimen with patient’s name (first and last), date of birth, date and time of collection, and collector’s initials. 

5. Place collection tube into specimen pouch and seal.  Insert specimen pouch into return envelope and seal.

6. Send the specimen packet to laboratory by mail or in person.

Specimen stability (in the collection tube):

6 days at room temperature or up to 30 days at 2°-8°C