A hospitalized patient who may have tuberculosis (TB)has an order for a sputum specimen.When will be the best time for the nurse to collect the specimen?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The best time to collect a sputum specimen for TB is in the morning immediately after the patient wakes up and before eating breakfast, smoking, or brushing their teeth. This helps ensure the specimen contains enough bacteria for accurate testing. Mouthwash, skin test administration, or the timing of the physician's order are not as relevant in determining the best time to collect the specimen.

A Hospitalized Patient Who May Have Tuberculosis (TB)has an Order