Aspiration Pneumonia: Diagnosis & Tests

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Tests used to diagnose aspiration pneumonia include:

arterial blood gases, which measure oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood

complete blood count, or CBC, which counts red and white blood cells

blood culture, which checks for bacteria present in the blood

sputum culture, which checks for bacteria in material from the lungs

The results of these tests help the healthcare provider select the best treatment.

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Aspiration Pneumonia: Symptoms & Signs		Aspiration Pneumonia: Prevention & Expectations

Author: Lanita Dawson, MD
Reviewer: Gail Hendrickson, RN, BS
Date Reviewed: 09/11/01

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