| Test Name: Sputum, Microscopy and Culture | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Alternate Test Names | Respiratory Specimen, Microscopy and Culture | ||
| PLS Test Code | RESP | Laboratory | Microbiology |
| Specimen | Sputum | Analysis Performed On | |
| Container | Urine/Specimen container 50ml | Container colour | Yellow |
| Multiple specimens | |||
| Required Volume Adult (mL) | Req Vol Paediatric (mL) | ||
| Reference Ranges | |||
| Turnaround Time Routine | Turnaround Time Urgent | ||
| Turnaround Other | Microscopy < 8 hours Culture, bacterial < 2 days | ||
| Days test is performed | Daily | Transport | 4 degrees C (On Ice) |
| Special Requirements | Bronchial suction trap containers are available from the laboratory | ||
| Patient Preparation | If patient is ordered a nebulizer, administer prior to specimen collection. | ||
| Collection Instructions | If TB is suspected, 3 early morning sputum specimens will be required. Explain to the patient that a deep cough is needed to produce sputum. The first early morning specimen is preferred by Pathology Department. Instruct the patient to rinse his/her mouth with water. If the patient has dentures they are to be removed. Instruct the patient to take a deep breath then cough, collect the specimen directly into the yellow screw top container and seal. Check there is an adequate specimen of sputum and NOT saliva in the container. A single specimen is adequate for M&C, cytology, fungal and TB cultures. Specimens for Cytology must be sent immediately to prevent deterioration of the exfoliated cells. Dispatch labelled specimen to Pathology Department with completed request form. | ||
| Clinical Information | |||
| Sent to Reference Laboratory | No | ||
| Ref Laboratory Name | |||
| Estimated Patient Fee | N/A | ||
| Last Updated | 25-Aug-2006 (Version: 1.00) | ||