How do I take the screening test?

• This guide is for the screening test kit, which is red and white.
• If you prefer, you can download a PDF version of this page. If you would like this leaflet in another language please click here
• If you have been asked to provide a second or repeat sample, and your test kit is yellow, please refer to the step-by-step guide for repeat tests.
• If you are unsure about anything, please contact our Bowel Screening Centre Helpline on 0800 0121 833.

In your pack, you will find:

• Cardboard sticks
• Freepost return envelope
• Red and white test kit

You might think that doing the test sounds a bit embarrassing and that’s OK. However, the test is done at home, in private and it only takes 3 visits to the toilet. Then you just put the completed kit in the envelope and return it free-of-charge to the Bowel Screening Centre.

Important: Once you have decided to start the kit it MUST be completed with samples from 3 bowel motions. You must complete ALL of the samples and post it within 10 days of taking the first sample.

Step 1. Before doing the test

• Remove the label with your name on it from the invitation letter and stick it on the test kit in the area shown.
• Get everything ready before going to the toilet.
• Have two of the sticks ready.
• Do not open the side of the kit marked DO NOT OPEN; leave it sealed.
• Do not open all 3 flaps at once. There are 3 sections in this kit for 3 separate bowel motions.

Step 2. Getting ready

• Have a pen ready to write the date of each sample on the front of the kit.

Step 3. Doing the test

• Peel back the first flap only.
• When opened, you will see 2 small windows which you will put your first samples on.

Step 4. Collecting your first samples

• It is important that the samples of your bowel motion have not been in the toilet water. Suggestions to catch your sample are: folded pieces of toilet paper, your hand in a small plastic bag or any clean disposable container.
• Use one of the sticks to take a small sample, about the size of a pea, of your bowel motion.
• Spread it to cover the first small window.
• Take another sample from a different part of your bowel motion and spread it over the second small window.
• Write the date on the front of the kit

Step 5. When you are finished

• Wrap the used sticks in toilet paper and dispose of them carefully. Please do not flush them down the toilet.
• Close the flap and tuck it under the red tab to keep it closed.
• Do not leave your kit in a warm place or in direct sunlight.
• Wash your hands afterwards.

Step 6. Collecting your second and third samples

• On other visits to the toilet repeat the test using the remaining 2 sections of the kit.
• The samples can be from any of your bowel motions within a 10-day period, just remember to date each sample.
• After collecting the third sample put the kit in the free retirm envelope and seal it.

Final checklist

• Have you put your name label on the test kit?
• Have you put samples on all 6 windows?
• Have you put 3 dates on your kit?
• Have you sealed the kit in the free return envelope?

If the answer is yes to these questions your kit is now ready to post, so do not delay. The envelope is designed to meet postal regulations and is safe to send in the post but, to protect postal workers, please make sure it is clean.

If you have any problems or questions about bowel screening, please contact the Bowel Screening Centre Helpline on 0800 0121 833 (textphone 18001 0800 0121 833) or go to www.bowelscreening.scot.nhs.uk.