Faeces sample how much

This means the levels of bacteria in the stool sample won't be the same as the levels of bacteria in your digestive system. If the levels of bacteria don't match, the test results may not be accurate. Your sample should be handed in as soon as possible, as sometimes it can't be analysed after being refrigerated — your doctor will tell you if this is the case.

If you can't hand your sample in immediately, find out how long it can be kept in the fridge. Your GP or the healthcare professional who requested the test will be able to tell you. If you can store it in the fridge, put the container in a sealed plastic bag first. Your GP or another healthcare professional may ask you for a stool sample to help them diagnose or rule out a particular health condition. By testing the levels of these substances and bacteria in your poo, it's possible to work out what's happening in your digestive system.

Step 1 Obtain a faeces collection container from your nearest Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology collection centre. For your nearest collection centre, please refer to your request form, visit our Collection Centre Locations , or telephone Patient Services Support on Step 2 The collector will provide you with either a clean receptacle or toilet liner. Place the receptacle or liner into the toilet bowl and use this to catch your faeces.

Repeat for the clear yellow topped jar. DO NOT pour out the preservative. Gently mix the faecal material with the preservative. It is important to mix all the sample completely in the fi xative. Close the lid tightly so it does not leak.

Discard the remaining contents of the large plastic container into the toilet. Watery diarrhoeal samples : pass into the clean unlined container provided and then carefully pour a portion of the liquid into the brown jar and a portion into the clear yellow top jar.

Be careful not to come in contact with the solution in the yellow jar. Half fi ll the jars only. Place each jar into the plastic bag provided. Discard the gloves into the plastic container, seal and discard into your garbage bin.