Help for stool smear testing - sorry, gross

[Malice67]

was mailed three cards with sticks and instructed only to take samples on three consecutive days before visit with GI and to bring with me. Got better instructions online (urinate first so as to not contaminate, loosely put plastic wrap under toilet seat to catch stool, take sample from there), but SO GROSSED OUT that I projectile vomited in middle of collecting sample. Is there an easier way? (can I cheat and take sample off toilet paper after a normal wipe?) Or does it just get easier with time? I can't bear to think about the next two nights. To me, this was worse than the colonoscopy prep.

 

[theOcean]

Unfortunately no. I think you just have to try and stomach it...

 

[Malice67]

that's what I was afraid of, but thanks.

 

[DJW]

Hi. Many many years ago I used an old margarine container. I've heard putting Vaseline under your nose can mask the smell - or breath through your mouth. Line the container with plastic wrap to avoid contamination.

 

[Malice67]

Hi. Many many years ago I used an old margarine container. I've heard putting Vaseline under your nose can mask the smell - or breath through your mouth. Line the container with plastic wrap to avoid contamination.

Like the Vaseline idea!! Nothing to lose, I'll give it a shot - thanks

 

[Pusheen]

I use a paper cup or plate, catch a little, you don't need much for these tests anyway...

 

[Malice67]

THANKS for the help!!! The paper plate method was MUCH easier, and the Vaseline blocked almost all the smell. Still really gross, but at least it didn't make me puke this time

 

[DJW]

Excellent.

 

[Nurse Nausea 2016]

I'm currently undiagnosed and have had to do those lovely cards about three times now. I'm also a nursing student and have been a CNA for almost 10 years. Even with all that "under my belt" my last stool sample was SO gross it got to me really badly too lol! I guess what I'm trying to say is I'm no help, but I definitely feel your pain! And from experience, collecting your own poo is way worse than collecting someone else's at work lol