Stool Collection: Clostridium-Difficile and / or Rotavirus
Why does my child need stool testing?
Lab testing is done on stool to detect bacterial and viral infections. Stool can also be tested for blood. This enables the physician to appropriately treat your child's illness.
Will this test be painful?
This test will not be painful to your child.
How should I prepare my child for the C-Difficile and / or Rotavirus Test?
Potty-trained child
- Collect the stool in a clean container. The amount needed is approximately the size of a quarter. This needs to be brought to the lab within two hours from collection. If the specimen is collected at night, please refrigerate and bring in the next day.
Child in diapers
- Collect the stool in a clean container. The amount needed is approximately the size of a quarter. This needs to be brought to the lab within two hours from collection. If the specimen is collected at night, please refrigerate and bring in the next day.
- Try to keep urine out of the stool you are collecting.
Your doctor or nurse may review these suggestions:
Potty-trained child
- Collection hat (available from the lab at Cincinnati Children's)
- Plastic wrap under the toilet seat
- Clean container
Child in diapers
- Plastic baggie with adhesive (available from the lab at Cincinnati Children's)
- Put disposable diaper on with the plastic side next to infant
- Plastic wrap on the inside of the diaper
- Keep all plastic wraps out of the child's reach
Call your doctor if you are having trouble obtaining the stool for testing.
Rev. 3/07
