Skill 11[1] Collection of Stool Specimen

EQUIPMENT
Diaper (nontoilet trained child)
Plastic liner for diaper (if stool watery)
Bedpan or “hat” (older child)
Tongue blade
Specimen container
Gloves, nonsterile

GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR SPECIMEN
COLLECTION

1. Check physician’s order. Ensures appropriate specimen

obtained from the correct child.

2. Check child for allergies to any materials used, e.g.,

povidone-iodine.

3. Prepare child and family. Enhances cooperation/partici-

pation; reduces anxiety/fear.

NOTE: Have an assistant hold/comfort the child as nec-
essary and in accordance with agency policy.

4. Gather equipment. Promotes organization and effi-

ciency.

5. Wash hands. Don gloves. Reduces transmission of

microorganisms.

PROCEDURE

1. Steps 1–5 of General Guidelines.
2. If stools watery line diaper with plastic. Allows watery

stool to be collected rather than absorbed into diaper.

3. Check diaper for stool at frequent intervals. Wear exam

gloves as for any diaper change.

NOTE: Stool may be obtained from bedpan or “hat” of
older child.

4. Put on nonsterile gloves. Protects nurse from contact

with body fluids.

5. Remove diaper. Set soiled diaper aside. Clean perineum

and put on a clean diaper. Prevents skin irritation.

6. Remove small amount of stool from diaper, bedpan, or

hat with a tongue blade.

7. Place specimen in container.
8. Label specimen and place in appropriate bag or con-

tainer along with the laboratory requisition slip. Ensures
specimen properly identified and the appropriate test is
done.

9. Remove gloves. Wash hands. Reduces transmission of

microorganisms.

NOTE: To obtain a swab stool specimen, insert swab

–

inch into rectum. Place swab in culture tube as

described under nasopharyngeal specimens. ((Figure
1

2))

DOCUMENTATION

1. Time specimen collected.
2. Color and consistency of stool.
3. Test collected for.
4. Condition of skin.

SKILL 11

Collection of Stool Specimen

FIGURE 12 Using a rectal swab to obtain a
stool specimen.