Procedure 47-8

Fecal Occult Blood Testing Using the Guaiac Testing Method PROCEDURE 47-8

PROCEDURE GOAL: To test for the presence of blood in a fecal sample

OSHA GUIDELINE: Wash hands, wear gloves and PPE

MATERIALS: Fecal occult blood testing cards or slides, fecal collection spoon or other device, written patient instructions, testing reagents, patient chart/progress note

Fecal Occult Blood Testing Using the Guaiac Testing Method PROCEDURE 47-8, STEP 3

Give the patient pretest and collection instructions:a. Do not collect a sample if you are menstruating or if visible blood is seen in the feces or toilet. b. For 3 days prior to collecting the sample, avoid red meats (beef, veal, and lamb); horseradish; vitamin C supplements; certain fruits and vegetables, such as cabbage, cucumbers, broccoli, carrots, beets, radishes, mushrooms, and citrus fruits; aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; and other medications, including corticosteroids. (Consult the specific test instructions for dietary and medication restrictions, as these may vary from test to test.) c. Collect the samples (depending on the specific test) on 2 or 3 different days. d. Collect the specimen before it comes into contact with the toilet water. (The patient may use a clean container or a specimen collection hat.) e. Place a small amount of fecal material on each slide or test card window with the applicator. The sample should be thinly smeared in the sample area. f. Close the card window or place the slide in the provided container and write the collection date on the card or slide. g. Return the card or slide to the office.

Step 2

Label the occult blood testing card or slide with the patient’s name and date of birth. Give the patient the test card or slide and collecting spoon or applicator.

Step 7

Dispose of the testing card according to OSHA regulations.

Step 4

Wash your hands and don gloves.

Step 5

Open the back of the card. Add the recommended amount of developing reagent directly over the smeared area on the back side of the paper and over the positive and negative controls, if present on the card.

Step 6

Read the test results at the appropriate time according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually within 60 seconds). There will be a blue color on the guaiac paper if blood is present.

Step 9

Document the results in the patient’s chart/progress note.

Step 1

Confirm the patient’s identity, and ensure that all forms are completed correctly.

Step 8

Remove your gloves and wash your hands.