Sputum Culture

How To Prepare

Do not use mouthwash before collecting a sputum sample because it may contain antibacterial substances that could affect your results.

If bronchoscopy will be used to collect your sputum sample, do not drink or eat for 6 hours before having the test.

Tell your health professional if you have recently taken any antibiotics.

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Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: March 21, 2007
Medical Review:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine Robert L. Cowie, MB, FCP(SA), MD, MSc, MFOM - Pulmonology
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