Patient Preparation
PRIOR TO THE PYtest ENSURE THAT THE PATIENT HAS NOT HAD: - a) Antibiotics or bismuth containing products for 4 weeks - b) Sucralfate for 2 weeks - c) Proton pump inhibitors for 1 week - d) Food or drink (including water. The patient may brush their teeth prior to the test but must not swallow toothpaste/water.) for at least 4-6 hours. The patient should refer all medication queries to their referring clinician. See also the "Medications to avoid list" at all Pathology collection centres (COL-E-001, TRI-MED)
Collection Instructions
1. Check that patient has adhered to patient preparation instructions. PATIENT MUST BE SEATED FOR THE ENTIRE TEST. 2) Capsule must be swallowed whole with 2/3 cup of water (use only small paper cup provided) 3) Three minutes later administer another 2/3 cup of water to the patient, again using the cup provided. Label balloon with patient surname, first name, date of birth and episode number. 4) After seven (7) minutes, take the straw and insert it in the split, found on the neck of the balloon. Patient must take a deep breath, hold for approximately 5-10 seconds then blow slowly through the straw into the balloon until it is firm. If the balloon is not filled with the first attempt, simply continue to blow until firm. 5) Hold the neck of the balloon at the base firmly, remove the straw, twist the neck of the balloon a few times and tie a knot in the neck of the balloon (carefully ensure this knot is tight). 6) Record the finish time on the balloon. Place an episode number on the balloon. Place balloon in box provided, add an episode number to the box and forward to laboratory.
Clinical Information
The test capsule to be swallowed for this test (PYtest) contains urea tagged with faintly radioactive carbon 14, levels similar to daily background irradiation. The test is considered safe in pregnancy or in childhood. Should any patient or guardian have concerns they should discuss these with their doctor before proceeding with the test. The capsule is Halal certified.
