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Steps involved in Smear Microscopy
Learning ObjectivesThe learner will be able to list the various steps involved in Smear Microscopy.
Sputum smears must be prepared promptly after samples are collected or received in the laboratory.
Steps in smear preparation are as follows:
- Cleaning and Labelling of slide (No 1)
- Making the smear (No 2-3)
- Drying and Heat fixing the smear (No 4-5)
- Staining and counterstaining the smear (No 6- 12)
- Examination of slide/Reading the Smear (No 13-14)
- Reporting and recording the observations (Digitally and TB Lab register)
- Storage of slides (as per Laboratory Numbers in closed box) (No 15)
Figure: Steps in Smear Preparation; 1- Labelling of the slide, 2- Using a broomstick to pick up purulent portion (A) while avoiding the salivary portion (B), 3- Spreading sample on a glass slide, 4- Air-drying the slides, 5- Heat-fixing the smeared slides,6- Staining with 1% Carbol fuchsin, 7- Heating of stained smear, 8- Decolorize with 25% Sulphuric acid, 9- Rinse off decolourizer, 10- Counter stain with 0.1% Methylene blue, 11-Rinse off counter stain, 12-Drying the prepared slide, 13-14 Examination of smears , reporting of observations, 15-Storage of slides; Source: Laboratory Diagnosis by Sputum Smear Microscopy.
Resources
- Laboratory Diagnosis by Sputum Smear Microscopy - The Handbook, GLI, 2013.
- Module for Laboratory Technicians, CTD, 2005.
Question | Answer 1 | Answer 2 | Answer 3 | Answer 4 | Correct answer | Correct explanation | Page id | Part of Pre-test | Part of Post-test |
Sputum smears should be dried by heating. | True | False | 2 | Sputum smears should be air-dried. | | Yes | Yes | ||
Clean, fresh, unscratched slides should be used for smear preparation. |
True | False | 1 | Prevents deposits on stained smear. | Yes | Yes |
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