Sputum

Samples submitted for fluid analysis that have multiple tests ordered should first be delivered to the Client Services specimen receiving desk for accessioning. Bypassing the specimen receiving area may result in CHCS orders being missed or not being accessioned in a timely manner. Once all CHCS orders have been accessioned, the Client Services staff will distribute the specimen to each section of the Laboratory requiring an aliquot of the specimen and will have a Tech from each section sign their initials and date in the green Fluids Logbook indicating receipt of specimen for testing. Specimens with Microbiology tests ordered (culture, fungal, AFB, etc.) will be delivered to Microbiology first to maintain sterility of the specimen prior to aliquoting in cases where a separate specimen was not sent specifically for Microbiology testing. Once Microbiology obtains the required specimen, the Client Services staff will deliver remaining specimen to other laboratory sections.
 

Sputum

Fresh, unfixed specimen.

Leak-proof container.

Room Temperature

Twenty-four hour sputum samples will be rejected. Sputum samples fixed with formalin will also be rejected.

2 days