VI. Sputum Smear Test
A. Definition of the Procedure
Sputum Smear Test : sputum is obtained for evaluation of gross appearance, for microscope examination, for gram staining and culture to identify the predominant organisms and cytologic examination.
B. Purpose of the Procedure
a. direct smear : shows presence of white blood cells and intracellular (pathogenic) and extracellular (non-pathogenic) bacteria.
b. sputum culture : to make the diagnosis, to determine sensitivity and to serve as a guide for drug treatment.
c. sputum cytology (Papanicolau method) : used to identify non-invasively the presence of malignancy
C. Preparation of the Patient
1. Teach patient the proper way of expectoration
2. If the sputum is not spontaneously being produced, make the patient inhale an irritating aerosol, such as hypertonic saline (sputum induction)
D. Procedure B
1. Early morning sputum is to be collected
2. Rinse mouth with plain water
3. Use sterile container
4. Sputum specimen for culture and sensitivity is collected before the first dose of antibiotics
5. For Acid Fast Bacilli (AFB) staining, collect sputum specimen for 2 consecutive mornings (3 specimens).
