LAB 7 - Respiratory Direct Smears

Question 1

what happens to specimens with a low or poor Q score

Answer 1

they are rejected and no workup will be performed on the culture

Question 2

when can we not reject Q scores?

Answer 2

• neutropenic pts
• if two specimens have been rejected, third is worked up even if Q score is poor
• any LRT specimens that were not expectorated = do not require a Q score (Auger suction, tracheal aspirates, ETT, washings, etc.)
• 3-4+ RBCs
• <8 y/o
• alveolar macrophages and/or BECs