Specimen collection and storage and transport device and method

摘要

A device for quantitively collecting, preserving and mailing a fresh and wet specimen of fecal or other biological matter for later analysis comprises a tubular vessel defining a chamber closed at one axial end by a plug and restricted at the opposite end by a narrow aperture. A stopper for closing the open end of the vessel extends into a stick whose distal portion has indentations capable of retaining a portion of the biological matter when the stick is dipped into it. A medial portion of the stick is shaped and dimensioned to intimately and circumferentially contact the edge of the aperture so that the amount of matter introduced into the chamber is limited and the excess stored outside the chamber in the presence of a disiccant for drying. The shank of the stick is dimensioned to seal the aperture once the stopper has been screwed upon the open end of the vessel. The plug mounts a breakable hollow nib and is installed after introduction into the chamber of a metered volume of preserving solution. A cover caps the plug and nib to provide additional sealing of that end of the vessel during transportation. The mail transportation of the vessel device with a sealable shipping capsule that is essentially leakproof. A disposable telescoping handle mounts to the stopper to allow the user to stab at matter such as feces in a toilet without contacting the toilet water.