Biological specimen collection apparatus and method

Abstract

A versatile biological specimen collection apparatus is disclosed. Beneficially, the apparatus includes a receptacle for catching a biological specimen, and a support bracket for the receptacle, and the support bracket is adapted to be supported by a support structure such as a toilet bowl.

1 . A method of collecting a biological specimen comprising disposing a biological specimen collection apparatus comprising a receptacle for catching a biological specimen and a support bracket for the receptacle, on a support structure wherein said support bracket is adjustably supported by said support structure, and positioning said receptacle in a direction selected from forward and rearward with respect to said support structure by use of oppositely extending support bracket ends that extend beyond said support structure, and collecting a biological specimen in said receptacle, wherein said positioning is by a seated individual supported by said support structure.  
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said support structure is a toilet bowl, and the individual is seated on a seat supported by said support structure.  
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said receptacle has an elongated catch shape wherein a generally U-shaped portion of said support bracket is provided with a generally circular aperture, and said receptacle comprises a boss that is rotatable within said aperture for adjustability of the catch position of said receptacle.  
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said apparatus further comprises a collection cup, and wherein said receptacle comprises a boss that corresponds to a generally cup-shaped cavity in a bottom wall of said receptacle, of an appropriate size for receiving at least a lower portion of said cup.  
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the adjustably supported support bracket comprises a generally U-shaped Portion that comprises a generally horizontal area, and said receptacle is supported by said generally horizontal area and is positioned vertically in space to avoid body contact during specimen collection but facilitate capture of the specimen.  
     
     
         6 - 15 . (Cancelled)  
     
     
         16 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said receptacle is positioned rearward for collection of a stool specimen.