Stool Collection Kits
Introduction
Stool collection kits are essential diagnostic tools in pediatric practice, enabling the collection and analysis of fecal samples for various clinical investigations, including infectious diseases, inflammatory conditions, and metabolic disorders.
Clinical Indications
- Infectious diarrhea investigation
- Parasitic infection screening
- Inflammatory bowel disease assessment
- Occult blood detection
- Metabolic disorder evaluation
- Malabsorption studies
Types of Collection Kits
1. Clean-Catch Collection Devices
- U-shaped Plastic Collectors
- Fits over standard toilet seat
- Ideal for older children
- Easy sample transfer
- Pediatric Collection Bags
- Adhesive backing
- Suitable for infants
- Leak-proof design
- In-Diaper Collection Systems
- Filter-based collectors
- Prevents absorption by diaper
- Minimal contamination risk
Collection Methods by Age Group
Neonates and Infants
- Adhesive Collection Bags
- Proper skin preparation
- Regular checking
- Immediate transfer to container
- Diaper Insert Methods
- Plastic-lined diapers
- Collection pads
- Prevention of urine contamination
Toddlers and Older Children
- Toilet-mounted Collectors
- Easy positioning
- Clear instructions
- Minimal handling required
- Specialized Containers
- Wide-mouth openings
- Secure sealing
- Built-in collection spoons
Collection Procedure Guidelines
Pre-Collection Requirements
- Patient Preparation
- Dietary restrictions if needed
- Medication considerations
- Parent/caregiver education
- Equipment Preparation
- Verification of kit components
- Temperature requirements
- Proper labeling materials
Collection Steps
- Clean Technique
- Hand hygiene
- Perineal cleaning if needed
- Contamination prevention
- Sample Collection
- Appropriate quantity
- Proper container use
- Multiple samples if required
Storage and Transport
Temperature Requirements
- Room Temperature Samples
- Maximum 2 hours
- For immediate testing
- Refrigerated Samples
- 2-8°C storage
- Up to 24 hours
- Frozen Samples
- -20°C or below
- Long-term storage
Testing Parameters
Common Laboratory Tests
- Microbiological Studies
- Culture and sensitivity
- Parasitology
- Viral studies
- Biochemical Analysis
- Fecal calprotectin
- Elastase
- pH and reducing substances
- Special Studies
- PCR testing
- Enzyme analysis
- Toxin detection
Quality Assurance
Sample Validation
- Collection Verification
- Proper labeling
- Adequate volume
- Transport conditions
- Documentation
- Collection time/date
- Patient information
- Special handling requirements
