(b) Collection data. The date and time of collection as well as the
sequence number of the specimen should also be included on the label.
b. Cathartic Induced Samples. Some protozoans and helminthes are passed
with more frequency in a loose stool. The use of purgatives (e.g., cathartic or laxatives)
has been found to be beneficial in enhancing the recovery of intestinal parasites from
constipated patients.
(1) Recommended cathartics. These purgatives are administered in saline
solutions. Some examples of these cathartics are:
(a) Sodium sulfate.
(b) Buffered phosphosoda.
(c)
Cascara sagrada.
(2) Unsatisfactory cathartics. There are some chemicals that interfere with
the examination of the stool specimen. Thus, cathartics containing the following
chemicals should be avoided:
(a) Castor oil.
(b) Mineral oil.
(c)
Magnesia compounds.
c. Perianal Samples. Eggs of Enterobius vermicularis (and rarely Taenoid eggs)
are deposited around the perianal folds and can be collected by adhering the eggs to the
collecting apparatus.
(1)
Cellulose-tape slide preparation.
STEP 1: Place a strip of "Scotch tape" about 3/4-inch wide and 3-1/2 inches long on
one end of a tongue depressor, sticky side down (give the written instructions
to the patient).
STEP 2: Just prior to collection, lift one end of the tape from the depressor and loop it
over to expose the sticky surface.
STEP 3: Holding the depressor with the right hand, spread the buttocks with the left
hand and press the sticky surface of the tape against several areas of the
perianal region.
MD0841
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