Blood Smear Preparation Quiz
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Questions and Answers

What is the recommended time frame for making smears from EDTA specimens stored at room temperature?

  • Within 5 hours
  • Within 30 minutes
  • Within 1 hour (correct)
  • Within 2 hours

What is the main purpose of making blood smears from EDTA specimens promptly?

  • To maintain cell morphology (correct)
  • To increase blood volume
  • To preserve plasma content
  • To enhance cell clumping

What is the primary purpose of examining thin blood films?

  • To investigate and manage various blood-related conditions (correct)
  • To determine the person's cholesterol level
  • To assess the hydration status of the patient
  • To measure blood pressure accurately

Which method is NOT mentioned for making blood smears?

<p>Using a centrifuge for separation (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following conditions can be evaluated through blood smear preparation?

<p>Anemia (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to make smears from blood collected via finger sticking?

<p>It allows immediate slide preparation (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does examining blood films contribute to the understanding of white blood cell counts?

<p>It allows for differential white cell count evaluation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What storage condition should EDTA specimens be kept in prior to smear preparation?

<p>At room temperature (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical reason for performing a thin blood film examination?

<p>To identify the presence of parasites (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which clinical condition is least likely to be assessed using a blood smear?

<p>Mental health disorders (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended fill level for a capillary tube when preparing a wedge blood smear?

<p>Three-quarters full (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which piece of equipment is NOT mentioned as necessary for preparing a wedge blood smear?

<p>Centrifuge (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the proper volume of the anticoagulated specimen when filling the capillary tube?

<p>10 μL (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which step is NOT part of preparing a wedge blood smear?

<p>Heating the specimen (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following tools is specifically used to spread the blood in a wedge blood smear preparation?

<p>Spreader (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to preserve the morphology of cells in films?

<p>Fix them immediately after drying (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it critical to avoid contact with water before fixation is complete?

<p>Water can alter the cell morphology (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the immediate action required after the films have dried?

<p>They should be fixed promptly (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What could happen if films are left to dry for too long before fixation?

<p>Cell morphology may be compromised (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical step in the process of preparing cell films?

<p>Preventing any water contact before fixation (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic is indicative of an improper smear technique?

<p>Drop of blood too large or too small (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can cause an irregular spread with ridges and a long tail in a blood smear?

<p>Dusty slide or dirty spreaing edge (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which issue relates to contamination that affects the quality of the smear?

<p>Contamination with fat or grease (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors do NOT contribute to cellular degenerative changes in a smear?

<p>Spreader slide pushed in a jerky manner (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended practice when making a blood smear?

<p>Maintaining contact of the entire edge of the spreader against the slide (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step mentioned for cleaning the slide?

<p>Wash off with running water directly to the center (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How should the slide be positioned while drying?

<p>Standing on end (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of washing off the stain with running water?

<p>To prevent a residue of precipitated stain (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should NOT be done when handling the slide after staining?

<p>Place it under direct sunlight (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it advised to let the slide dry in air?

<p>Air drying helps in stain fixation (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of blood is used to prepare a peripheral blood smear?

<p>EDTA-anticoagulated blood (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which blood smear preparation method involves using a cover glass?

<p>Cover glass smear (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of a wedge blood smear?

<p>It results in a uniform thin layer of blood. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following options describes the necessary condition for the blood to be used in smear preparation?

<p>The blood must be collected using an EDTA anticoagulant. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one important consideration while preparing blood films?

<p>Avoiding contamination with other substances. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one significant reason for examining thin blood films?

<p>To help in the management of anemia and infections (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following conditions can be investigated through a blood smear examination?

<p>Anemia (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an essential step to ensure accuracy in blood smear preparation?

<p>Using a freshly cleaned slide free of contaminants (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does observing blood films impact the understanding of blood cell counts?

<p>It reveals variations in cell morphology and counts (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What condition does NOT typically warrant examination through blood smear preparation?

<p>Gastroesophageal reflux disease (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum time allowed for making smears from EDTA specimens stored at room temperature to prevent distortion of cell morphology?

<p>1 hour (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which method is appropriate for making blood smears directly from a finger stick?

<p>Directly placing blood onto the slide (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What issue arises if smears are not prepared promptly from EDTA specimens?

<p>Loss of cell shape (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How should EDTA specimens be stored prior to making blood smears?

<p>At room temperature (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an important consideration when making blood smears from finger sticking blood?

<p>Avoiding contact with contaminants (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the appropriate distance to place the drop of blood from the frosted area of the slide?

<p>About 2 mm (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which hand is recommended to hold the narrow side of the slide while preparing a blood smear?

<p>Left hand (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How large should the drop of blood be for proper smear preparation?

<p>2 mm in diameter (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What position should the slide be in during the blood smear preparation?

<p>Flat surface (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What part of the capillary tube should be filled when preparing a wedge blood smear?

<p>Three-quarters full (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of specimen is specifically mentioned for use in a wedge blood smear?

<p>Anticoagulated specimen (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be the approximate distance of the drop from the frosted area?

<p>1 inch (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is essential equipment for making a wedge blood smear?

<p>Capillary tube or micropipette (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided to maintain the quality of the blood smear prior to fixation?

<p>Contact with water (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic should NOT be present for an effective wedge blood smear?

<p>Presence of ridges (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the appropriate action when placing the second slide on the specimen slide?

<p>Place it just in front of the blood drop (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be observed after allowing the blood to spread on the slide?

<p>The blood should spread almost to the edges of the slide (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to use the smooth clean edge of the second slide?

<p>To minimize the risk of contamination (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect must be ensured when placing the second slide on the specimen slide?

<p>It should be aligned just in front of the blood drop (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What outcome should be anticipated from spreading the blood almost to the edges of the slide?

<p>More accurate cellular morphology will be observed (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Blood Smear

A thin layer of blood spread on a microscope slide, used to observe blood cells under a microscope.

Blood Smear Examination

A lab test used to diagnose anemia, infections, and other conditions by examining the different types of blood cells.

Blood Smear Preparation

The process of creating a blood smear, involving spreading a small drop of blood onto a microscope slide.

Differential White Cell Count

A calculation that shows the relative number of each type of white blood cell present in the blood.

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Changes in Blood Cells

Abnormal changes in the appearance of blood cells, which may indicate a health problem.

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EDTA specimen

A type of blood sample collected in a tube containing EDTA, a chemical that prevents blood clotting.

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Cell morphology

The condition of cells being maintained in their normal structure and shape.

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Blood smear time frame

The optimal time to make a blood smear from an EDTA specimen is within 1 hour of blood collection if stored at room temperature.

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Finger sticking

A technique for collecting a small blood sample by pricking a finger and directly applying a drop of blood to a slide.

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Spreader

A tool used to evenly spread a blood sample onto a microscope slide for examination.

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Clean slide

A flat, rectangular glass piece designed for supporting and examining microscopic samples, especially blood smears.

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Blood capillary tube

A tiny glass tube used to collect and transfer small, precise volumes of liquid, especially blood.

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Micropipette

A device used to measure and dispense very small volumes of liquids with precision, often used in laboratory settings.

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10 μL

The volume of blood sample recommended for a blood smear; 10 microliters is a tiny amount!

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Blood drop size

The blood drop is either too big or too small, making it difficult to analyze.

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Jerky spreader slide movement

The spreader slide moves unevenly, creating an uneven smear.

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Spreader slide not fully in contact

The spreader slide isn't kept fully in contact with the slide, resulting in gaps and uneven spreading.

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Incorrect spreader slide angle

The spreader slide is held at an incorrect angle, resulting in an uneven smear.

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Incomplete smear

The spreader slide doesn't reach the end of the slide, leaving a short smear.

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Fixation

The process of preserving the shape and structure of cells in a biological sample.

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Cell Film

A thin layer of cells dried on a slide, ready for examination under a microscope.

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Fixing Cell Films

A crucial step in cell preservation, done immediately after the cells have dried.

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Water Contamination

Exposure to water before fixation can distort cell structures.

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Importance of Fixation

Ensuring accurate observation of cell morphology for diagnosis and research.

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Washing a Blood Smear

The process of washing away excess stain from a blood smear slide using a direct stream of water aimed at the center of the slide.

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Drying a Blood Smear

The technique of placing a blood smear slide vertically to allow air to dry it after washing.

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Staining a Blood Smear

The process of applying a stain to a blood smear slide to enhance visibility of blood cells under a microscope.

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Making a Blood Smear

The technique of creating a thin layer of blood on a microscope slide to allow for proper examination.

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Examining a Blood Smear

A visual examination of blood cells on a slide under a microscope to analyze their characteristics.

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Spreader Slide

A tool used to evenly spread a blood sample on a slide, creating a smooth and consistent layer for analysis.

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Fixation (of a Blood Smear)

A process that ensures the preservation of blood cell shape and structure for accurate microscopic examination.

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Making Blood Smears

The process of creating a thin layer of blood on a microscope slide to allow for proper examination of blood cells. It involves using a small blood sample and a spreader slide to create an even smear.

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Wedge Smear

A method of making blood smears where a small drop of blood is placed on one end of a slide and then spread evenly using a spreader slide, creating a wedge-shaped smear.

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Cover Glass Smear

A method of making blood smears where a small drop of blood is placed on one end of a slide and then covered with a cover glass, which is then gently pulled backward to create a thin layer of blood.

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Fixing Blood Smears

The process of preserving cell structure and shape by drying a blood smear and then fixing it with a solution, typically methanol or ethanol.

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EDTA-anticoagulated Blood

A specific type of blood sample collected in a tube containing EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid), a substance that prevents blood clotting.

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Blood Smear Time Limit

Blood smears should be prepared within 1 hour of collecting blood from EDTA tubes stored at room temperature. This helps preserve the normal appearance of blood cells.

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Finger Prick Smear

Making a blood smear directly from a finger prick is an alternative method for examining blood cells.

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EDTA's Role

EDTA is a chemical added to blood collection tubes to prevent clotting, allowing for a longer timeframe to create a blood smear.

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Distortion of Cell Morphology

Changes in cell shape and structure can occur if blood is not processed promptly, potentially affecting the accuracy of the results.

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Importance of Blood Smear

Blood smear preparation is essential for examining blood cells under a microscope, providing important insights into a patient's health.

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Wedge Blood Smear

A blood smear technique where a small drop of blood is spread on a slide using a spreader, resulting in a wedge-shaped layer for examination.

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Spreading Technique

The ideal blood smear is created by dragging the spreader slide across the drop of blood at a 30-degree angle, ensuring a consistent and smooth spread.

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Staining

The process of applying a special dye to the blood smear, staining the various components of the blood cells for better visibility under the microscope.

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Spreader Slide Placement

The edge of the spreader slide should be placed on the specimen slide, close to the blood drop, but not touching it.

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Blood Spreading Technique

Allow the blood to spread across the slide, almost reaching the edges. A smooth, even spread is important.

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Avoiding Water Contamination

Water contamination can distort cell structures, so it's crucial to avoid getting the slide wet before fixation.

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Study Notes

Blood Smear Preparation

  • Blood smears are important in diagnosing conditions like anemia and infections.
  • They reveal changes in blood cell appearance and help determine white blood cell counts.
  • A blood film is a low-cost, rapid method for patient condition assessment.

Aim of Blood Smear

  • Blood smears help investigate and manage conditions that alter blood cell appearance.
  • The information gathered from blood smears is quick and affordable.

Steps to Make a Blood Film

  • Preparation: The first step involves preparing the blood smear.
  • Fixation: The next step is fixing the blood smear.
  • Staining: Finally, staining the blood smear.

Methods for Making Blood Smears

  • Cover glass smear.
  • Wedge smear.

Specimen Requirements

  • EDTA-anticoagulated blood is used for peripheral blood smears.
  • Smears should be prepared within one hour of collection from EDTA samples stored at room temperature.
  • Blood smears can also be created using finger-prick blood directly on a slide.

Equipment

  • Spreaders.
  • Clean slides.
  • Blood capillary tube or micropipette (10 μL).

Procedure

  • Fill a capillary tube about three-quarters full with the anticoagulated blood sample.
  • Place a drop of blood (approximately 2mm) on a slide, away from the frosted area.
  • Position the slide on a flat surface.
  • Hold the slide's un-frosted edge with your left thumb and forefinger.
  • Use a spreader slide and smooth, continuous motion to spread the blood onto the slide, creating a thin film. Allow the blood to spread to the edges of the slide.

Characteristics of a Good Smear

  • Thickness: Thick at the drop end, thin at the opposite end.
  • Location: Occupies the central portion of the slide.
  • Edges: Doesn't touch the edges, except at the drop point.
  • Margins: Margin free

This blood slide will be used to analyze the morphology (structure) of different blood elements.

Common Causes of a Poor Blood Smear

  • Drops of blood too large or too small.
  • Jerky movements during spreader slide usage.
  • Insufficient contact of the edge of the spreader during spreading.
  • Incorrect angle when pushing the spreader.
  • Improper spread resulting in ridges/long tails in the smear.
  • Contaminated slides (fat, grease).
  • Holes in the smear.
  • Delays during fixation, wrong methanol concentration or timing.
  • Insufficient air drying.

Identifying Poor Smears (Examples)

  • Jagged tail from spreader.
  • Smear too thick.
  • Smear too long or wide.

Fixation of Blood Smear

  • Fixing preserves the cells' morphology.
  • Fixation should occur quickly after drying.
  • Avoid moisture before and during fixation.
  • Methyl alcohol (methanol) is the preferred choice.
  • Ethyl alcohol (absolute type) can also be used.
  • Methylated spirit (95% ethanol) is not recommended as it contains water.

Staining of Blood Smear

  • Thin smears are air-dried.
  • Flood the smear with stain.
  • Staining time varies depending on experience, but a suitable time is 1-5 minutes.
  • Mix the stain with an equal amount of buffer and place on the smear.
  • Stain for 10-15 minutes.
  • Rinse the slide with running water, focusing on the center.
  • Allow to air dry by standing the slide upright.

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Blood Smear Preparation PDF

Description

This quiz tests your knowledge on the procedures and importance of making blood smears from EDTA specimens. Key aspects covered include storage conditions, methodology, and clinical relevance of blood films. Ensure you understand the critical reasons behind prompt preparation and evaluation of blood smears to assess various health conditions.

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