Editing Nursing Skills and Procedures – LPN Flashcards (section)

== Specimen Collection ==

;What are the steps for a clean catch midstream urine specimen?
:Cleanse the meatus front to back, begin voiding into the toilet, then catch the midstream portion without stopping the stream, avoid touching the inside of the container or lid, and transport promptly.

;What invalidates a 24 hour urine collection?
:Losing or discarding any void during the period. The first void is discarded to start the timing, all subsequent voids are collected, the final void at the end is included, and the specimen is kept chilled if required. A missed void means the collection restarts.

;How is a sputum specimen best collected?
:Early in the morning before eating, after rinsing the mouth with plain water rather than mouthwash, using several deep breaths and a deep cough. Saliva is not an acceptable specimen.