Fecal specimen collection, preserving and transport device and method

摘要

A device for quantitively collecting, preserving, storing and mailing a fresh and wet specimen of fecal or other biological matter for later analysis comprises a simple tubular vessel double sealed at one end by a machine manipulable plug having breakable hollow nib and cover, and that is engaged at the opposite end by a machine manipulable stopper from which a specimen carrying stick axially projects into the vessel through an internal sealable septum spanning a median section of the vessel. The cross-sectional profile of the stick is shaped to form a widened shoulder carrying a resilient washer. The shoulder matingly engages a correspondingly shaped passageway in the septum when the stopper engages the vessel which restricts the amount of specimen passing therethrough. The amount of specimen and preserving fluid are quantitatively balanced and remain so until part or all of the fluid is extracted for analysis either manually by breaking of the sealing nib or automatedly by machine removal of the plug or stopper. Collection by a patient or unskilled person is enhanced by providing the tubular vessel as part of a sample collection and return kit which further contains a disposable paper catch web which is made to be temporarily secured to a toilet droopingly spanning the seat to catch the feces for sampling. The kit also provides a sealable plastic bag and a crush resistant mailing carton. The above components of the kit are carried within a sterile bag until used.