The nurse needs to obtain a sputum specimen for culture and sensitivity from a patient. When should the nurse obtain this specimen?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The sputum specimen should be obtained before the first dose of antibiotics is administered. This allows for accurate identification and sensitivity testing of the microorganisms present in the respiratory tract before they are affected by antibiotics. Obtaining the specimen after antibiotic administration can alter the results of the culture and sensitivity testing.

The Nurse Needs to Obtain a Sputum Specimen for Culture