Sputum Culture (Routine)
Not yet clinically reviewed
This protocol was migrated from the earlier Pharmapedia and Ward Guide apps for educational use. Follow your hospital's own policies and consult seniors when in doubt.
- Rinse or gargle with water before collection (antiseptic gargle should not be done) – Early morning, coughed up sputum samples are essential (Salivary samples yield normal flora or colonizers only) – Nebulized saline induction, whenever necessary.
AFB Culture – 3 consecutive early morning sputum samples in adults (Can be refrigerated and transported together) – In neonates and small children - gastric aspirate may be cultured.