When is the best time to collect a sputum specimen?

Collecting a sputum specimen in the morning before food is considered the best practice because it allows for the highest quality sample. During the night, mucus accumulates in the airways due to decreased respiratory movements and the body's natural processes, making early morning the optimal time for collection. Additionally, collecting the specimen before eating minimizes the risk of contamination with food particles and saliva, which can interfere with analysis. Morning specimens tend to provide a more concentrated and representative sample of respiratory secretions, enhancing the accuracy of diagnostic tests.