Field Internship Student Data Acquisition Project. (FISDAP) Airway Practice Exam

Which color of sputum is typically associated with pneumonia?

1. Yellow

2. Green

3. Red or rust-colored

4. Clear

The correct answer is: Red or rust-colored

The color of sputum commonly associated with pneumonia is red or rust-colored, particularly in cases of bacterial pneumonia caused by organisms such as Streptococcus pneumoniae. This coloration is often a result of the presence of blood in the sputum, which can occur due to the inflammation and damage to the lung tissue affecting the bronchial blood vessels. Rust-colored sputum can suggest a more severe underlying infection and may be indicative of the body's response to this infection through increased vascular permeability and potential bleeding. Recognizing these characteristics is essential in assessing a patient's condition, as it can influence both diagnosis and treatment. While yellow and green sputum might also indicate infections and other respiratory conditions, they are more typically associated with bronchitis or chronic pulmonary infections. Clear sputum is generally considered normal and implies a less concerning respiratory status, as it typically lacks the inflammatory components found in infections like pneumonia.