Specimen Type

Stool in ECOFIX preservative:

Stool collection:

Pass stool into a clean, dry container. 

--The use of a bed pan or a large plastic bag into a waste basket can be used to catch the specimen

--Collect stool from diaper lined with plastic. If infant or child has diarrhea, line the diaper with plastic wrap or use a pediatric urine bag placed over the rectum to collect a specimen that is not contaminated with urine.

CAUTION:  Never leave plastic wrap against a child's skin for more than 30 minutes at a time.

For EcoFix transport (green top): 

1)  Open the lid of the tube containing the liquid. 

2)  Using the built-in spoon, place small spoonfuls of stool (sample the bloody, slimy, or watery portions) into the tube until the liquid level rises to the red line.   

3)  If the stool is formed, try to sample small amounts from each end/side and the middle. 

4)  Mix the contents with the spoon, then twist the cap tightly closed and shake to mix well.

-Label transport with patient name (first and last) or other unique identifier, patient hospital
identification number,  date and time of collection, collector initials, and test(s) being
ordered.
-Promptly forward specimen to laboratory at ambient temperature.