What is the primary concern when collecting a stool specimen?

The primary concern when collecting a stool specimen is that it must not be contaminated with urine. This is crucial because the presence of urine can interfere with the accuracy of the test results. Many tests that rely on stool specimens are looking for specific pathogens, blood, or other components that can be affected by contamination. If the specimen includes urine, it may lead to false positives or negatives, making it difficult to provide an accurate diagnosis or treatment plan.

While it is important to use appropriate containers and storage methods for stool specimens, these considerations are secondary to ensuring that the sample remains uncontaminated. Proper techniques should be employed during collection to ensure that the specimen truly represents the patient’s stool without interference from other bodily fluids.