What it means
A sample of stool is placed in conditions where bacteria such as Salmonella, Shigella, Campylobacter and certain E. coli can grow and be identified. It is used for diarrhea that is severe, bloody, with fever or lasting more than a few days. Other tests, such as a test for C. difficile toxin or for parasites, are ordered separately.
For the nurse
Collect the stool in a clean container without urine, water or toilet paper, label it in front of the client, and send it promptly. Collect it before antibiotics are started when possible.
At a glance
| Normal range | Normal intestinal bacteria only; no disease-causing germs grown. |
|---|---|
| Also written | stool cultures |
Related terms
C. difficile
Clostridioides difficile, a spore-forming bacterium that can infect the colon (the large intestine).
diarrhea
Loose or watery stools, usually three or more times a day or more often than normal for the person.
fecal-oral route
A way germs spread in which tiny amounts of stool from an infected person reach another person's mouth.