CHAPTER XXXII 



COLLECTION OF MATERIAL FOR BACTERIOLOGIC 

 EXAMINATION 



Oftentimes the material sent to the laboratory for 

 bacteriologic examination has been so improperly col- 

 lected or handled that its examination is entirely use- 

 less. Much of the trouble can be avoided by a little 

 attention to details. 



In most cases bacteriologic specimens should be 

 collected in sterile containers. An exception may be 

 made in the case of sputum to be examined micro- 

 scopically for tubercle bacilli. When cultures are to 

 be made the specimens should be hurried to the labora- 

 tory without delay. In all cases where a culture is made 

 at the bedside or operating table, a smear preparation 

 should be made from the same material and sent to the 

 laboratory with the culture. Oftentimes such a smear 

 gives invaluable information not obtainable by the cul- 

 ture alone. All specimens should be accompanied by a 

 memorandum showing the character and source of the 

 material, the name of the patient, date and hour of col- 

 lection, and a definite statement as to what information 

 is wanted from the bacteriologist. It is important not to 

 add disinfectants to specimens from which cultures are 

 desired. 



Sputum. — Care should be taken that the specimen of 

 sputum has actually been coughed up. Some patients 



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