A nurse is collecting a sputum specimen from a client for culture and sensitivity. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Collect 2 mL of sputum in an emesis basin: Sputum should be collected directly into a sterile container, not an emesis basin, to prevent contamination and ensure accurate culture results. Using a nonsterile basin can introduce oral flora and compromise the validity of the specimen. B. Instruct the client to rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash prior to specimen collection: Antiseptic mouthwash can kill microorganisms in the oral cavity and potentially reduce the yield of pathogenic organisms in the sputum culture. Clients should rinse with plain water instead to reduce contamination without affecting the specimen. C. Swab the oropharynx with a sterile swab: Swabbing the oropharynx collects saliva and mucosal cells rather than lower respiratory secretions, which may not accurately represent the causative pathogen in pneumonia or other lower respiratory infections. A deep cough specimen is preferred. D. Refrigerate the specimen until the time of transport to the laboratory: Sputum specimens should be stored in a refrigerator if there is any delay in transport to the laboratory. Refrigeration slows bacterial overgrowth, preserves the integrity of the specimen, and ensures accurate culture and sensitivity results.