What should a properly collected sputum specimen contain?

A properly collected sputum specimen should primarily consist of mucus from the respiratory tract. This mucus is indicative of the condition of the lungs and can provide vital information about infections, inflammation, or other respiratory conditions.

The presence of saliva can dilute or contaminate the sample, making it less effective for diagnostic purposes. Saliva does not represent the secretions produced in the lower respiratory tract, which is what clinicians need to analyze for accurate results. Thus, a sample containing only mucus from the respiratory tract reflects the true state of the lung tissues, allowing for better diagnoses regarding illnesses such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or other pulmonary disorders.

Pus might be present in some respiratory conditions or infections, but a sputum specimen is not expected to consist solely of pus. A well-formed sample focuses on mucus produced by the bronchial tissues.