Sputum Collection

Critical Elements

• Containers for procedure should be single-use and sterile.
• Maintain aseptic/sterile technique throughout.
• Perform hand hygiene before and after procedure.

Procedure

Prior to Treatment: (Critical Thinking)

• Verify order.
• Gather equipment: Gloves; sterile collection container.

Patient Interaction: (Safety)

• Explain procedure.
• Use two patient identifiers.
• Wash hands.

Steps of the Procedure: (Patient Centered Care; Safety)

1. Position patient in a high Fowler’s position or sitting on the edge of the bed.
2. Provide the patient with the specimen container, advise to avoid touching the inside.
3. Ask patient to breathe deeply for three or four breaths, then encourage a full inhalation, hold breath and cough.
4. Instruct to expectorate the secretions directly into the specimen container.
5. Repeat until adequate sample obtained.
6. Apply gloves, cover the container with the lid.
7. Label container with patient information.

After Procedure (Patient Centered Care)

• Straighten room making patient comfortable, replace call light.
• Wash hands before leaving room.
• Transport specimen to the lab as soon as possible.  Refrigerate if unable.

Document (Informatics, Communication)

• Amount, color, clarity of sample.
• That specimen was obtained and sent to lab.

Resources

• National Institute of Health Medline Plus