Preparation
- Rinse mouth and gargle with water prior to collection
- Do not brush teeth prior to collection
- Take a deep breath and produce a deep cough (good quality sputum should not contain saliva)
- Label container with patient's complete name, date, and time of collection
What to Bring?
- Sterile labeled sputum container
- Doctor's lab request form
Notes
- Saliva contamination will cause sample rejection.