FecalSwab® : Frequently Asked Questions
July 13, 2020
- What is FecalSwab®?
- How is FecalSwab® Used?
- What type of media is used with FecalSwab®?
- Why is it important to mash the specimen?
- Can a lubricant be used prior to insertion with a rectal swab?
- Can FecalSwab® be used with automation?
- Can FecalSwab® be used for molecular testing?
- Where Can I Order FecalSwab®?
What is FecalSwab®?
FecalSwab® combines a COPAN-invented flocked swab with 2mL of Cary-Blair medium in a plastic, screw cap tube. Simplify and standardize fecal sample collection, transport and processing, converting semi-solid fecal matter into liquid specimens.
Click Here to view The FecalSwab® Product Page
How is FecalSwab® Used?
Using the Flocked Swab provided in the collection kit, a small sample of feces (approx 1g) can be transferred into the tube by medical staff at the point of care or by a technologist after the fecal specimen has been received in the laboratory. Alternatively, FecalSwab® can be used to take a rectal sample directly from the patient.
Click Here to view and download an Example Pre-Collected Sample Instructional Guide
Click Here to view and download an Example Rectal Collection Guide
FecalSwab® How-To Video
What Type of Media is Used with FecalSwab®?
2mL of Cary-Blair medium
Why is it Important to Mash the Specimen with the Swab?
Mashing the specimen helps to evenly disperse and suspend the specimen ensuring a homogenous sample.
Can a Lubricant Be used Prior to Insertion With a Rectal Swab?
Yes. The performance of FecalSwab® and a lubricant used in clinical practice is within the range of M40-A2 acceptability limits.
Can FecalSwab® Be Used With Automation?
Yes, FecalSwab® is packaged in plastic, ready-to-use tubes, which can easily be put onto WASP®DT automation specimen processor.
Can FecalSwab® Be Used for Molecular Testing?
FecalSwab® is compatible with enteric molecular assays for bacteria, viruses, and parasites where package inserts indicate Cary-Blair collection systems for sample collection*.
*Always read the manufacturer’s package insert for specific instructions regarding specimen collection and transport for the type of test kit being used.
Where Can I Order FecalSwab®?
FecalSwab® is Supplied by the Following Distributors:
