Observe the Collection and Transport Procedures for All Types of Stool Collection of this chapter.

Some coliform bacilli produce antibiotic substances that destroy enteric pathogens. Refrigerate the specimen immediately to prevent this from happening in the sample.

Samples that are diarrheal rather than formed stool are usually still adequate to give accurate results.

A freshly passed stool is the specimen of choice.

Collect stool specimens before antibiotic therapy is initiated and as early in the course of the disease as possible.

If mucus or blood is present, it should be included with the specimen because pathogens are more likely to be found in these substances. If only a small amount of stool is available, a walnut-sized specimen is usually adequate.

Keep the outside of the collection container free from contamination and immediately send the sealed container to the laboratory.

For best preservation and transport of specimens suspected of containing pathogens, a Cary-Blair solution (which contains sodium thioglycolate, disodium phosphate, sodium chloride, agar, and distilled water) vial with indicator should be used.