Additional Specimen Instructions

If Mycobacterial (AFB) or Fungal testing is also requested send as much specimen as posisble for optimal recovery of organisms.

A gram stain is performed to evaluate specimen quality. Sputum specimens with >25 squamous epithelial cells will not be cultured. Tracheal aspirates with no micororganisms seen or >10 squamous epithelial cells will not be cultured.
Specimen Collection:
Expectorated sputum If possible, have the patient rinse mouth and gargle with water prior to sputum collection. Iinstruct the patient not to expectorate saliva or postnasal discharge into the container. Collect specimen resulting from deep cough in sterile screw-cap cup or other suitable sterile collection assembly.
Induced sputum (collected by respiratory therapy) Using a wet toothbrush, brush the bucal mucosa, tongue, and gums prior to the procedure. Rinse the patient`s mouth thoroughly with water. Using an ultrasonic nebulizer, have the patient inhale approximately 20-30 mL of 3-10% 0.85% NaCl. Collect the induced sputum in a sterile screw-cap cup or other suitable sterile collection assembly.
Tracheal aspirations Aspirate the specimen into a sterile sputum trap.

Similar orders: Legionella culture (LAB 902)