Sputum is used for the detection of?

Appeared in: NHM UP Staff Nurse - 2017

Explanation

Sputum examination is the primary and most common method for diagnosing pulmonary Tuberculosis (TB).
The test aims to identify the causative agent, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, also known as Acid-Fast Bacilli (AFB), in the respiratory secretions.
Standard diagnostic methods for sputum include smear microscopy (Ziehl-Neelsen stain), culture on Lowenstein-Jensen (LJ) medium, and rapid molecular tests like CBNAAT (GeneXpert).

Option B: While sputum cytology can be used to look for malignant cells, it is not the primary or most sensitive test for lung cancer.
Option C: HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a blood-borne virus and is not detected in sputum.
Option D: Jaundice is a clinical sign of high bilirubin levels, typically due to liver or gallbladder issues, and is not diagnosed via sputum.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Diagnostic use of sputum samples as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Proper patient instruction on sputum collection is a critical nursing responsibility to ensure a high-quality diagnostic sample and avoid false negatives.
Sputum-positive TB patients are infectious; nurses must implement airborne precautions immediately to prevent transmission within healthcare settings.
What if? If a patient cannot produce a sputum sample through coughing (e.g., a child or a debilitated patient), a nurse may assist with or prepare the patient for alternative methods like induced sputum, gastric lavage, or bronchoalveolar lavage.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question: 'What is sputum used to detect?'. This is a direct recall question about diagnostic tests.
Think about the most common and primary use of a sputum sample in a clinical setting. Sputum is a respiratory secretion from the lower airways.
Evaluate the options based on this: Tuberculosis is a primary lung disease diagnosed by finding bacteria in sputum. Lung cancer can sometimes be found, but it's not the main test. HIV is a blood virus. Jaundice relates to the liver and is diagnosed via blood tests.
Conclude that Tuberculosis is the most direct, common, and definitive disease diagnosed using a sputum sample among the choices.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Microbiology Essentials Sastry 4e Part 2 p. 157-159

E6 Ghai Essential Pediatrics(pp 26-904 of 913) p. 257-259

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Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.