Specimen Requirements

Preparation of Patient:

Laboratory recommends, patients follow the below instructions at least 7 days prior to and continuing through the test period.

Do not collect specimens during, or until three days after your menstrual period, or while you have bleeding hemorrhoids or blood in your urine.   Eat a well balanced diet, with the following exceptions:

Avoid:

7 days prior and during testing:

• No more than one adult aspirin (325 mg) a day

• No other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Motrin*, Advil**). NOTE: Please talk to your physician or pharmacist if you have any questions about medications you take regularly.

3 days prior and during testing:

• No red meat (beef, lamb, or liver)

• No more than 250 mg vitamin C from supple ments, and citrus fruits and juices. An average orange contains approximately 70-75 mg vitamin C. 100% of the recommended daily alowance of vitamin C is 60 mg.  NOTE: Some iron supplements contain vitamin C in excess of 250 mg.

Follow ordering provider instructions if different from laboratory recommendation.

Container Type:

Sterile Specimen Cup

or

Clean Stool Transport Vial

Or

Fecal Occult Blood Card

Specimen Type:

Stool

Specimen Volume:

5 mL

Specimen Handling/Transport:  

Apply thin smear inside Box A with applicator stick.  Reuse applicator to obtain a second sample from a different part of the stool.  Apply thin smear inside Box B.  Close cover and let dry.  Transport ambient room temperature.

Specimen Stability/Storage:

14 days ambient room temperature