Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 72%
Simulated
A client seen in the clinic is directed to bring a sputum specimen back for an acid-fast bacillus (AFB) test in order to rule out tuberculosis. What direction will the nurse give the client regarding the collection of the specimen?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
Morning sputum samples have higher bacterial concentrations, improving AFB test accuracy. A is premature, C is incorrect as multiple specimens are needed, and D is wrong as cultures take weeks.