For testing, stool should be collected from several areas, especially those containing blood, mucus or pus. If parasites are visible in the stool, they should be separated from the stool sample, rinsed with water, and sent in a separate container with a small amount of 0.85% NaCl or water.
- Before passing stools, the urinary bladder should be completely emptied.
- Collect the stool in a clean container (bedpan or another container designed for this purpose).
- Use the teaspoon of the transport container to take a sample of the right size depending on the type of test. For bacteriological, mycological, and virological testing – a sample of the size of a hazelnut.
- For parasitology and general analysis - a sample of the size of a walnut; for liquid stools, 2-3 ml should be sent for examination.
The stool sample should be sent to the laboratory as soon as possible after collection. It is acceptable to store the sample at a room temperature for up to 2 hours. For extended periods, store it in the refrigerator only.
For Campylobacter culture, if it is not possible to send the stool to the laboratory immediately, it is recommended to send the sample in a swab with the Stuart transport medium.
Important: Stool is not diagnostic material for testing for pinworms (Enterobius vermicularis). To test for this, a rectal swab should be used from a kit taken from a collection point or purchased at a pharmacy.