Sputum C+S

Only count the number of any sputum specimens (including endotracheal secretions) sent for "culture and sensitivity" for bacteria or fungus. Staff should be counting labs off EPR. Note, C+S report can take 1-3 days, so keep this in mind when doing your counts.

BALs don't imply C+S

When a BAL (Bronchial Aspiration and Lavage) is done, and a specimen is sent for bacterial or fungal cultures, then include in count for C+S. Don't assume when BAL is done that a culture for C&S is sent. Check the EPR.

not included

Counts not included as sputum for C+S:

• AFB - test done differently and in separate medium so not counted under C+S
• Viral - totally different testing method, so not counted under C+S. - Dr. Kumar. - Trish Ostryzniuk 17:55, 2014 October 21 (CDT)
• cytology
• rejected specimens are not included in lab counts