The nurse needs to obtain a sputum specimen from a client. What should

The nurse needs to obtain a sputum specimen from a client. What should the nurse have the client do?

1. Apply sterile gloves.
2. Clear the throat.
3. Cough to bring up secretions.
4. Rinse the mouth with mouthwash prior to the collection.

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 3
Rationale 1: The client does not need to put on sterile gloves. The only thing that has to remain sterile is the inside of the collecting container.
Rationale 2: Clearing the throat will not help produce the sputum; the client has to cough.
Rationale 3: Clients need to cough to bring sputum up from the lungs, bronchi, and trachea into the mouth in order to expectorate the specimen into a collecting container.
Rationale 4: The client is allowed to use mouthwash after the collection but not before because the antiseptic could alter the results.