Routine sputum cultureDefinition: Routine sputum culture is a
test of secretions from the lungs and bronchi (tubes that carry
air to the lung) to look for organisms that cause infection. How
the test is performed: A health care provider will often collect
sputum samples in the morning. The doctor or nurse may have you
rinse your mouth first. The goal is to bring sputum up from
deeper in your airways and your throat. You will be asked to
take three deep breaths, then force up some sputum amount by
coughing deeply. You will spit any sputum that comes up into a
sterile cup. The sputum is then taken to the laboratory. There,
it is placed in a special substance (medium) under conditions
that allow the bacteria or fungi to grow. How to prepare for the
test: Drinking a lot of water and other fluids the night before
the test may help to get the sample. How the test will feel: You
will need to cough. Sometimes the health care provider will tap
on your chest to loosen deep sputum. There may be a steam-like
mist to inha