the Sputum Assessment Scale

The Sputum Assessment Scale is a tool that healthcare providers use to evaluate the quality of a patient's sputum (mucus coughed up from the lungs). It helps determine the severity of respiratory issues by scoring characteristics like color, thickness, consistency, and amount. A higher score indicates more abnormal or concerning sputum, which can help guide treatment decisions and monitor disease progression. This standardized assessment ensures consistent and objective evaluation of lung health, facilitating communication among healthcare teams and improving patient care.