Collection Instructions

Patient preparation and instructions
Patients should follow the PATIENT INSTRUCTIONS at least 7 days prior to and continuing through the test period.

Roughage in the diet can increase test accuracy by helping uncover “silent” lesions which bleed intermittently.

Do not collect a sample if blood is visible in your stool or urine (e.g., menstruation, active hemorrhoids, urinary tract infection). 

For the most accurate test results collect each stool sample before contact with the toilet bowl water. You may use any clean, dry container.

Protect slides from heat, light, and volatile chemicals (e.g., ammonia, bleach, bromine, iodine and household cleaners).

Remove toilet bowl cleaners from toilet tank and flush twice before proceeding.

The Hemoccult test requires only a small fecal specimen. The specimen is applied to the guaiac paper of the Hemoccult Slide as a THIN SMEAR using the Applicator Stick provided.

For seven days before and during the stool collection period, avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin. Acetaminophen (i.e.Tylenol*) can be taken as needed.

For three days before and during the stool collection period, avoid vitamin C in excess of 250 mg a day from supplements, and citrus fruits and juices. Some iron supplements contain vitamin C in excess of 250 mg.

For three days before and during stool collection period, avoid red meats (beef, lamb, and liver).

PATIENT PROCEDURE

1. Collect the specimen into a clean dry container.

2. Use the provided applicator to mix the specimen.

3. Use the provided applicator to apply a thin smear of specimen to Box A.

3. Reuse the applicator to select a sample from a different part of the feces. Apply a thin smear to Box B.

4. Close cover flap. Discard applicator into a waste container.

5. Ensure the cards or container are labeled with the full patient name, date of birth, date and time of collection. Specimens that do not meet the laboratory labeling policy will not be accepted.