STOOL CULTURE

10002317

Synonym(s):
Lab Section Category
Specimen Collection

Stool, Rectal swab

Storage/Transport

• Specimen should reach the Microbiology Laboratory within 1 hour of collection.
• If delay in transportation cannot be avoided, specimens MUST BE stored at 2 to 8°C.

Methodology

Culture

Test Result

Negative:
“No Salmonella, Shigella, Campylobacter and Vibrio species isolated.”

Positive:
Identification of probable pathogen(s)

Turnaround Time

Negative: 2 – 3 days

Positive: 3 – 5 days*
*Depending on the number and type of organism(s) isolated

Day(s) Test Set Up

Daily

Additional Information

Specimens collected more than 72 hours after hospitalization may not be appropriate. 

Sample Rejection

Refer to General Specimen / Collection Guide

Last Updated - 13 Jun 2025