Connect
← Return to Sputum Test submissions and outcome results
Discussion
Sputum Test submissions and outcome results
MAC & Bronchiectasis | Last Active: Feb 26 7:09pm | Replies (81)Comment receiving replies
I’ve never done a sputum test, but I’m going to UNC’s center for Bronchiectasis for a work up. They sent me a kit for 3 sputum tests, and instructions. They want each test to have at least 1 TABLESPOON of sputum😳. Plus they want me to do this right after I wake up, and only gargle water beforehand. The most I can get up this way is maybe 1/4 TEASPOON. So I’m going to try some other ways to try and get at least something. Does nebbing saline first contaminate a sample? I also have more mucus after exercising, but I would need to eat first. How particular are you guys about all this stuff when you get your samples?
Thanks!
Replies to "I’ve never done a sputum test, but I’m going to UNC’s center for Bronchiectasis for a..."
@sarahlynn1960, I see Dr. Daniels at UNC. She has a standing order for sputum samples, which reads "Brinchiectasis patient, please process sample regardless of amount." I've submitted 2 samples so far, both acceptable for culture, and I'm sure that each was less than a TBS!
I nebulize 7% saline, then Aerobika 3x, and recently started using an Autogenic Drainage (AD) app on my phone before getting a sample. AD may help you if you haven't tried that. There are instructions on doing AD online, but I found them difficult to follow. The app may not be perfect but it's very easy to use. Good luck!
Connect
@sarahlynn1960 Apparently there are different beliefs about how much is needed for the sputum test. I was told that it doesn't require much as long as there is a good sample of mucus.
Yes it is preferred that it be first thing in the morning. True no food before creating a sputum sample in the morning...as told to me.
When I had the respiratory therapist help me during an office visit to bring up mucus we did the nebulizing first.
Did they say you couldn't nebulize first??
I would think you could exercise first and then do the sputum for testing but not eat and then do it. That wouldn't be good to eat first, that would contaminate it because food particles can come up when bringing up the sputum.
Barbara