Test Directory

Sputum culture

Sample Required
Expectorated or induced sputum samples

Sample Container
Sterile universal container (not sputum trap container)

Sample Volume
2 mL

Transport/Storage
Transport to the laboratory on the day of collection or store overnight at room temperature

Turnaround Time
3 days

Notes
Patient preparation:

• Collect specimen under direct supervision of nurse or physician
• Have patient rinse or gargle with water
• Instruct patient to cough deeply to produce lower respiratory specimen (not postnasal fluid). For induced samples, nebulizer will be used
• Collect into sterile container

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