Stool Sample Collection Instructions

• Make sure the child does not have any creams or ointments on their bottom.
• A diaper with stool in it will not be accepted.
• Do not take stool from the toilet bowl.
• The stool must be in an approved container. If you bring it in a different container, you will be given a proper one at the lab and will need to transfer the sample there.
• If urine gets in the stool, please obtain a new specimen collection kit and collect a new sample.

Materials needed:

• Stool hat
• Specimen container
• Wooden sticks to transfer stool
• Gloves
• Biohazard bag
• Occult Blood Collection Vial, if Occult Blood test is ordered
• These supplies can be obtained from your provider’s office or an outpatient lab location.

How to Collect the Sample:

1. Have the child pee first to empty their bladder.
2. If your child wears a diaper, line the back of the diaper with plastic wrap to catch the stool.
3. If your child is toilet-trained, lift the toilet seat and place the hat-shaped container on the toilet rim. Then put the seat back down.
4. Have the child sit on the toilet and poop into the hat.
5. Use the sticks provided to move some of the stool into the specimen container from the kit. Discard the sticks; do not leave in container.
6. If Occult Blood testing is ordered:Unscrew the purple cap on the Occult Blood Collection Vial. Do not remove the lid covering the dropper on the top of the lid. Do not pour out the liquid.
   Poke the spiral applicator into stool 6 times at different sites. Use only enough fecal material to cover the tip of the applicator. Do not clump, scoop, or fill the tube.
   Screw the applicator back into the tube and secure tightly.
7. Close the lid tightly on the stool specimen container until it clicks.
8. Use the label(s) provided by your provider or write the child’s name and date of birth on the container(s). Also include date and time of collection (include AM or PM). Make sure the occult blood collection vial is labeled as well as the primary stool container.
9. Wash your hands well.
10. Place the container(s) in the biohazard bag.
11. Take the container to the lab within 1-2 hours and keep it cold. If collected in the evening, please take to the outpatient lab the following morning. Keep it in the refrigerator or on ice to keep it cold.
12. At the lab, staff will check you in, give you a test label, and confirm the child’s name and birth date. If any questions please contact the lab. (Akron Outpatient Lab 330-543-8573 or Mahoning Valley Lab 330-746-9623).