Stool (diarrheal): Collect the specimen using a Stool Collection for Ova and Parasites Kit provided by SHL. The kit includes a specimen bag, an absorbent sheet, and one Total-Fix vial to preserve the stool specimen. Label vial with patient's name, unique identifier (e.g., date of birth), and date of collection. Preserve each stool specimen in parasitology transport vial (Total-Fix) within one hour of collection.
- Pass the stool into a clean, dry plastic disposable container or place a large plastic bag or kitchen wrap over the toilet seat to catch the specimen. DO NOT MIX URINE OR WATER WITH THE STOOL SPECIMEN.
- Semi-formed stool: Using the spork built into the lid, add stool to the vial until the liquid reaches the red fill line. Any blood or mucous should be included.
- Liquid stool: Pour the stool into the vial up to the red fill line.
- Tighten the vial cap completely. A leaking specimen may be unsuitable for testing. Clean the outside of the vial with rubbing alcohol or soap and water if they are soiled. Check to make sure the patient name and date of collection are still readable.
- Wash hands thoroughly. Avoid contact with the Total-Fix solution inside the vial. If contact occurs, flush the affected area with water. Contact a physician immediately if irritation develops.
Urine (for Schistosoma haematobium): Collect urine in clean container. Optimum time of collection is between noon and 3 pm as an increased number of eggs are shed midday. DO NOT put in parasitology transport vial. Transport to the lab at room temperature.
Sputum: Collect sputum in a clean container with a tight fitting lid. Sputum should be obtained from the lower respiratory tract rather than consisting mainly of saliva. Add an equal amount of 10% formalin or transfer sputum to parasitology transport vial. Transport to the lab at room temperature.
Body fluids (duodenal aspirates/liver abscesses): Add equal volume of 10% formalin or place in parasitology transport vial. Transport to the lab at room temperature.
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| Formed stool, unpreserved stool, improperly collected specimens (e.g., rectal swabs), leaking specimen, multiple specimens within 24 hours, stool specimens containing barium, oil, water, or urine |
Travel history required to assist diagnosis. SHL recommends collecting three separate stool specimens within a 10 day period.
Preserve each stool specimen in parasitology transport vial (Total-Fix) within one hour of collection.
WARNING! DO NOT DRINK THE TOTAL-FIX SOLUTION IN THE COLLECTION KIT -- IT IS POISONOUS. If ingestion occurs, drink milk or water. Call the local Poison Control Center, your local physician, or the Iowa Poison Control Center day or night at 1-800-222-1222.
