Which laboratory test identifies the disease-causing organisms of the lower respiratory tract?
A) Arterial blood gas
B) Throat culture
C) Sputum culture
D) Sweat test
E) Throat swab

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sputum culture is the laboratory test that identifies the disease-causing organisms of the lower respiratory tract. Sputum is a sample of mucus that is coughed up from the lungs and analyzed for the presence of bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Throat culture and throat swab are more commonly used to identify organisms causing upper respiratory infections, while arterial blood gas and sweat test are used for other diagnostic purposes.

Which Laboratory Test Identifies the Disease-Causing Organisms of the Lower