NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)Specimen HandlingMedium
A phlebotomy technician is instructing a patient on collecting a stool specimen for ova and parasites (O&P). Which of the following instructions is most important to ensure a valid specimen?
- AEnsure the specimen is not contaminated with urine or toilet water.
- BCollect the specimen immediately after consuming a high-fiber meal.
- CStore the collected specimen at room temperature for up to 48 hours.
- DCollect only a pea-sized amount of stool for the test.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Ensure the specimen is not contaminated with urine or toilet water.
Stool specimens for ova and parasites must not be contaminated with urine or toilet water, as these can dilute or destroy the parasites, making detection difficult or impossible. The patient should collect the specimen in a clean, dry container.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Dietary fiber does not directly impact the validity of an O&P specimen, though certain medications or substances might.
- C. Stool for O&P often requires immediate transfer to a preservative or refrigeration, not prolonged room temperature storage, to maintain parasite morphology.
- D. A sufficient amount, usually about 2-5 grams or a walnut-sized portion, is needed for adequate testing, not just a pea-sized amount.
Stool O&P Contamination
Stool specimens for ova and parasites (O&P) must be free from contamination with urine or toilet water to ensure accurate detection of parasites.
- Urine/water can destroy parasites.
- Use a clean, dry collection container.
- Crucial for accurate diagnosis.
Memory trick: Stool O&P: No Water, No Worries.