Specimen Requirements

1. Upon rising, have patient rinse mouth with water just prior to obtaining specimen. Collection should be performed prior to patient eating.

2. Expectorate first-morning, deep-cough (not saliva) sputum into a screw-capped, sterile container. (Nasal aspirate is not acceptable.)

Note:  Cough induction by inhalation of a saline aerosol may be used if required.

3. Do not add alcohol, formalin, or anticoagulant.

4. Label container with patient’s name (first and last), date of birth, and type of specimen.

5. Send specimen refrigerated. Maintain sterility and forward promptly.

Note:  1. Post bronchoscopy specimen is also very valuable for use in diagnostic cytology.

2.  Please complete a request form and include the following:

A. Patient’s name (first and last)

B. Date of birth

C. Date of collection

D. Source of material

E. Physician’s name

F. Pertinent clinical information

3. Place specimen in a plastic specimen bag with request form inserted into pocket separate from specimen.