The Specimen of Choice for Detecting Gastrointestinal Pathogens Is

Question

The specimen of choice for detecting gastrointestinal pathogens is
A) a urine specimen.
B) vomit.
C) a swab of the anal area with no feces on it.
D) a stool specimen.

Accepted Answer

Stool specimens are the specimen of choice for detecting gastrointestinal pathogens, as they contain the actual fecal matter and can provide a more accurate representation of the presence or absence of pathogens. Urine samples are not typically used to detect gastrointestinal pathogens, as they reflect the urinary tract rather than the gastrointestinal tract. Vomit may contain some gastrointestinal contents but may not provide as accurate a representation as a stool specimen. Swabs of the anal area may also be used in some cases, but are not as reliable as stool specimens.