Sample Collection and Special Diagnostic Diet Instructions:

How do I do the test?

It is very simple. Obtain a small stool specimen from the toilet bowl using the collection tissues and applicator sticks provided. After collecting each specimen, apply a thin smear onto the windows inside the test slide. Repeat for a total of three bowel movements. More complete instructions are included on the envelope containing the test slides. Completing all three test slides is very important. Research has shown that lower intestinal bleeding may not occur all the time. Testing three bowel movements increases the chances of detecting any blood that may be present during the test period. Please follow the instructions carefully, completely and promptly. Return the test to your physician or designated laboratory.

Patient instructions

Make sure that you read and follow these instructions completely before performing the test. Caution: If you do not follow the patient instructions, you may compromise the accuracy of the test. Please consult your physician if any part of these instructions are a problem.

• Do not collect samples during, or until three days after your menstrual period, or while you have bleeding hemorrhoids or blood in your urine.

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

• Collect samples from three consecutive bowel movements or three bowel movements closely spaced in time.

• Protect slides from heat, light and chemicals (e.g. iodine, bleach and household cleaners).

• Keep cover flap of slides closed when not in use.

• 7 days prior to and during the test period omit aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID's) Note: Acetaminophen (i.e. Tylenol ® or generic equivalent) is allowed.

• Eat a well-balanced diet with the following modifications

3 days prior to and during the test period omit:

Vitamin C in excess of 250 mg. per day (from all sources, dietary and supplemental).*

Red meat (rare, cooked and processed beef, lamb and liver).

Raw broccoli, cauliflower, horseradish, parsnips, radishes, turnips and melons.

*Caution: some iron supplements contain Vitamin C which exceed 250 mg per day.

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