Specimen Requirements

Submit only 1 of the following specimens: 
 
Specimen Type: Expectorated sputum

Container/Tube: Sterile container
Specimen Volume: >1 mL
Collection Instructions:
1. Collect under direct supervision of nurse or physician.

2. Have patient remove dentures, if appropriate.

3. Instruct patient to take a deep breath, hold it momentarily, then cough deeply and vigorously into container, and collect expectorated material.
 

Specimen Type: Induced sputum

Container/Tube: Sterile container
Specimen Volume: >1 mL
Collection Instructions:
1. Have patient remove dentures, if appropriate.

2. Instruct patient to brush his/her teeth and/or rinse mouth well with water.
3. With aid of nebulizer, have patient inhale approximately 25 mL of 3% to 10% sterile saline.

4. Collect expectorated material in container.