Collection/Processing Instructions

Patient should follow these instructions:
1. Do not collect samples during or until three days after a menstrual period, during the presence of bleeding, hemorrhoids or blood in the urine.
2. Do not consume the following drugs, vitamins, and foods:
a. Avoid aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Ibuprofen, indomethacin, naproxen) 7 days prior to and during the test period. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be taken as needed.
b. Avoid vitamin C in excess of 250 mg per day (from all sources) for 72 hours prior to and during the test period. Some iron supplements contain vitamin C in excess of 250 mg.
c. Avoid red meat (beef, lamb) for 72 hours prior to and during the test period.
d. Collect samples from three different days.
e. Protect the slides from heat, light and volatile chemicals (iodine, ammonia, bleach, and household cleaners).
f. Keep the cover flap over the slides closed.
g. To increase test sensitivity, sample should be applied directly to Hemoccult cards immediately after specimen collection.