American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Histotechnologist Practice Test

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What is the desired outcome of the nickel method in cytology specimen preparation?

  1. To enhance staining quality

  2. To maintain specimen integrity

  3. To ensure specimen visibility

  4. To increase specimen volume

The correct answer is: To maintain specimen integrity

The desired outcome of the nickel method in cytology specimen preparation is to maintain specimen integrity. This method is designed to preserve the cellular architecture and morphology of the specimen during the preparation process. By doing so, it allows for more accurate diagnosis and evaluation, as the cells remain representative of their original state, minimizing artifacts that could arise from improper handling or processing. In cytology, maintaining the integrity of the specimen is crucial because it ensures that pathologists can make informed decisions based on the actual characteristics of the cells. Specimen integrity includes factors such as cell preservation, preservation of cytoplasmic and nuclear details, and the prevention of degradation, all of which are essential for achieving reliable results in cytological evaluations.