Stool Collection: Hemoccult
Why does my child need stool testing?
Lab testing is done on stool to detect bacterial, parasitic and viral infections. Stool can also be tested for blood. This enables the doctor to appropriately treat your child's illness. The hemoccult test looks for hidden blood in stool samples.
Will this test be painful?
This test will not be painful to your child.
How should I prepare my child for a hemoccult test?
To collect a sample, follow these steps:
- If you have a test card, collect a small amount of stool on a Q-tip and apply a thin-smear to BOX A
- Collect another small amount of stool on a Q-tip and apply a thin-smear to BOX B
- Close, cover and label specimens
- The specimen may be collected with the aid of a container or toilet tissue
- Keep the specimen at room temperature and bring it to the hospital lab within 14 days
- Try to keep urine from mixing in the stool
- If you do not have a test card, you must bring in your child's fresh stool within two hours after you have taken the sample
Note of Caution
- False positive reactions can occur if your child's diet is high in red meat, processed meat and liver, and raw fruits and vegetables.
- Be sure to protect your child's hemoccult test card from light, heat and volatile chemicals. (Store completed slides at controlled room temperature (59 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit).
Contact Us
For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.
Rev. 10/07
