Step 2: Urinate First
Before collecting the sample, empty your bladder first. That way, you will not get urine into the sample.
Afterward, wipe from front to back, and wash your hands thoroughly.
Step 3: Collect the Stool Specimen
Proper stool specimen collection procedure means you will not collect feces that came in contact with the inside of the toilet or the water in it.
Place a clean container in the toilet to catch the stool. It can be a plastic basin, plastic wrap, or even a spread of newspaper. Then, use the scoop that comes with the container to obtain the sample. Note that portions of feces with blood or mucus are particularly significant. Aim to fill 1/3 of the container or about the size of a walnut.
If you have diarrhea, tape a plastic bag in the bowl to collect feces for collection.
Finally, screw the lid of the container tightly and place it in a sealable plastic bag.
Step 4: Deliver the Specimen to the Laboratory
It would be best if you delivered the stool sample as fast as possible. The longer it takes to deliver the specimen, the more chances there are for the microorganisms to multiply. This means the stool no longer correctly represents the levels of microorganisms in the gut. Sometimes, even refrigerated specimens cannot be analyzed.
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