Specimen Requirements

Stool; 2 - 4 grams or 1 Tablespoon.  PCR is a very sensitive test and precautions should be taken to not cross-contaminate specimens.  DO NOT FREEZE SPECIMEN.  Do not allow specimen to mix with urine or water.

The patient should be instructed not to take any antacids, oily laxatives or anti-diarrheal medications unless prescribed by the physician..

Stool:  Place 1 Tablespoon of fresh stool specimen into a sterile container or fill Enteric Transport Media (ETM) container to the fill line.  Keep refrigerated.  Send to St. Luke's Laboratory as soon as possible.  Collection device available from the laboratory.