Obtaining a sputum specimen

Obtaining a sputum specimen - An analysis of a sputum specimen will identify any abnormalities and provide direction for appropriate treatment.

Equipment:
The equipment required consists of specimen pot with lid, clearly labelled with client details; request form signed by a doctor, and labelled with client details; specimen bag; tissues; and mouthwash/oral hygiene equipment. The procedures and rationales are given below.

Procedure	Rationale
Explain procedure to client	To increase client co-operation and obtain informed consent
Encourage and assist the client to cough into the specimen pot	Coughing expels the sputum from the lung fields
If experiencing difficulty in obtaining the specimen, gently percuss the client’s back in collaboration with the physiotherapist	Gentle percussion dislodges sputum, making it easier to expel
Check that expectorant contains sputum	Test will be invalid if saliva is sent in error
Obtain assistance from physiotherapist if you encounter difficulties in obtaining specimen	Physiotherapists are trained specifically in techniques that may help to obtain a specimen
Replace lid on pot ensuring an adequate seal	To prevent leakage
Put form and specimen pot in specimen bag and seal	To ensure request and specimen arrive at laboratory together
Offer mouthwash/oral hygiene equipment	To maintain client comfort
Send specimen promptly to laboratory	To enable analysis of specimen. Delay in sending the specimen will invalidate the test
Document in client’s notes that specimen has been obtained	To ensure consistency of care