Collection Instructions

Upon arising, patient should rinse mouth with water and expectorate a deep cough specimen into plastic container. The patient is instructed to deposit, in the bottle, only those secretions coughed up from the bronchial tree in contrast to saliva which accumulates in the mouth or postnasal accumulation in the pharynx. The best time for collecting sputum is early in the morning just after awakening. Forceful, vigorous coughing at this time is often very productive. It is important that the patient rid the mouth of saliva and other material by spitting or preferably by rinsing the mouth with water before attempting to bring up sputum. For patients with scanty sputum, it may take 15-30 minutes of intermittent coughing before an adequate sample can be obtained. Seal container tightly and shake. Bring each specimen as soon as possible to the Pathology Department located on the second floor of the hospital. Label container with 2 patient identifiers (Full Name and DOB and/or MRN is acceptable),specimen source, and collection date.