How should guaiac tests be ideally performed to detect fecal occult blood?
- Stool specimens should be collected over 3 consecutive days.
- Guaiac testing should be performed on a fresh specimen (< 7 days).
- Dry specimens should be rehydrated.
- Patients should refrain from eating red meat and cabbage, cauliflower, or broccoli.
- Avoid taking aspirin or NSAIDs for several days before the test.