How should a client collect a sputum specimen for culture?

A. At bedtime after using mouthwash
B. By spitting saliva into the cup
C. After brushing teeth with toothpaste and eating breakfast
D. Early in the morning, after rinsing the mouth with water, by coughing deeply

Show answer and rationale

Correct answer: D

Early morning specimens contain more secretions. Rinsing with water (not mouthwash) reduces contamination, and deep coughing produces sputum rather than saliva.

Source: Pagana. Mosby's Manual of Diagnostic and Laboratory Tests (sputum culture)

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How should a client collect a sputum specimen for culture?

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