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  1. Sample one is collected “on the spot.” Explain why the sputum is needed and show the person how to cough up sputum. If possible, observe and guide the person during sample collection. Give the person another labeled container to take home and use the next morning if not collecting frontloaded sputum.

  2. Sample two is collected by the individual upon awaking the next morning and be brought to the health care facility.

  3. Specimens should consist of good quality sputum (not saliva) in order to be useful for sputum smear microscopy. Good quality sputum:
    • Is frequently thick and mucoid
    • May be fluid with chunks of dead tissue
    • May range in color from opaque white to green (bloody specimens will be reddish brown)
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