Question

A nurse needs to obtain a sputum specimen from an adult client. Which nursing action will best facilitate obtaining the specimen?

a. ask the client to spit into the collection container
b. have the client take deep breaths
c. restrict the client's fluids
d. wait until after the client has eaten to get the specimen.

Answer 1

The best method to facilitate obtaining a sputum specimen is to have the client take deep breaths and cough forcefully, ideally before a meal, to ensure the sample comes from deep within the lungs.

Step-by-step explanation:

In order to obtain a high-quality sputum specimen from an adult client, it is essential that the sample comes from deep within the lungs rather than from the oral cavity. The best practice involves having the client take a series of deep breaths followed by a forceful cough to bring up the sputum from the respiratory tract into the mouth, after which it can be expectorated into a sterile container.

This method is more effective than simply asking the client to spit, which may result in a sample contaminated with oral secretions rather than actual sputum. Additionally, it is preferable to collect the specimen before a meal to reduce the risk of vomiting induced by coughing and to avoid contaminants from food. Fluid restriction is not advisable before specimen collection as adequate hydration can actually help to thin secretions and facilitate sputum production.