Specimen Requirements

1. Collect fresh, random stool specimen using the Ova and Parasite Collection Kit supplied. Add stool to preservative in vials to the fill line.

2. Forward promptly at ambient temperature only.

Note: 1. Wait at least 1 week after barium procedure or laxative administration before collecting specimen.

2. Serial specimens should be collected at least 24 hours apart and all within 10 days.

3. Only 1 examination will be performed on stools from outpatients and from inpatients hospitalized for ≤3 days. Examinations will not be performed on stools submitted >3 days of hospitalization unless the ordering physician overrides the policy based on clinical need. When 2 or more stool specimens are received from outpatients, they will be pooled and tested as one.

4. Indicate if suspicious of Cryptosporidium, Isospora, Cyclospora, or Microsporidium on request form.