Final answer:
In gross examination of feces, the presence of blood, consistency, color, and mucus are important observations. A stool sample may be required for diagnosing conditions, utilizing microscopic examination and various diagnostic tests such as stool O&P, immunoassays, and molecular analysis.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the gross examination of feces, there are several factors that should be considered. Notable observations include the presence of blood, which might suggest an infection by certain agents like C. jejuni, Salmonella, or E. histolytica.
The consistency, color, and presence of mucus can also be informative. Additionally, if a stool sample is collected for testing, direct examination may help diagnose conditions such as giardiasis or cryptosporidiosis. Multiple samples over several days may be required. Different diagnostic techniques include microscopic examination, stool O&P (ova and parasite) exam, immunoassays, molecular analysis (PCR), and others such as acid-fast staining and ultraviolet fluorescence microscopy that can highlight specific characteristics of pathogens in stool specimens.