Question

When obtaining a sputum specimen, which action is appropriate?

1) Wear gloves and a mask
2) Use a sterile container
3) Collect the specimen in the morning
4) Send the specimen to the lab immediately

Answer 1

To ensure the safe and accurate collection of a sputum specimen, one should wear gloves, use a sterile container, collect the sample in the morning, and send the specimen to the lab immediately.

Step-by-step explanation:

Proper Techniques for Obtaining a Sputum Specimen

When obtaining a sputum specimen, several steps are critical to ensure the sample is collected correctly and safely. Firstly, it is important to wear gloves to protect oneself from potential infectious agents. Safety glasses or goggles are also recommended. Gloves should be disposed of in a biohazard garbage. Secondly, a sterile container must be used to prevent contamination of the specimen. Collection of the specimen early in the morning is ideal because it typically contains a greater accumulation of sputum produced overnight. After collection, the specimen should be sent to the lab immediately to ensure that it remains viable and that the results are accurate.

These steps are part of standard precautions to prevent the transmission of infections, and they align with laboratory safety protocols when handling biological specimens.