Special Instructions

Patients should follow the Patient Instructions at least 7 days prior to and continuing through the test period.

1.  For accurate test results, apply samples from bowel movements collected on three different days to slide.

2.  Do not collect sample if blood is visible  in your stool or urine (e.g. menstruation, active hemorrhoids, urinary tract infection).  Contact your doctor.

3.  For the most accurate test results collect stool sample before contact with the toilet bowl water.  You may use any, dry container.

4.  Return completed slides to the laboratory no later than 14 days after your first sample collection.

5.  Protect slides from heat, light and volatile chemicals (iodine, ammonia, bleach and household cleaners).

6.  Remove toilet bowl cleaners from the tank and flush twice before proceeding.

7.  For seven days before and during the stool collection period, avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory  drugs such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin (more than on e adult aspirin a day).

8.  Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be taken as needed.

9.  For three days before and during the stool collection period, avoid vitamin C in excess of 250 mg a day from supplements and citrus fruits and juices.

10.  For three days before and during stool collection period, avoid red meats (beef, lamb, and liver).

11.  Eat a well balanced diet including fiber such as bran cereals, fruits and vegetables.

12.  Please talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about medications you take regularly.

13.  100% of RDA of vitamin C for an adult is 60 mg a day.

14.  Some iron supplements contain vitamin C in excess of 250 mg.