Vaginal Smear Examination, also known as a vaginal wet mount, is a diagnostic test used to examine vaginal secretions under a microscope. The test aims to detect infections, such as bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, and trichomoniasis, as well as to assess the overall health of the vaginal environment. The smear is prepared by spreading vaginal discharge on a glass slide and examining it under a microscope. This test helps diagnose infections that cause symptoms like itching, abnormal discharge, odor, and pain.

Patient Preparation for Vaginal Smear Examination

1. Fasting Requirements:

   • Fasting: No fasting is required for this test. Patients can eat and drink normally.

2. Other Preparations:

   • Avoid Vaginal Products: Do not use tampons, douches, vaginal medications, or spermicides 24-48 hours before the test, as these can affect the results.
   • Abstain from Intercourse: Refrain from sexual intercourse for 24 hours before the test to avoid altering the vaginal environment.
   • Schedule Appropriately: It is best to avoid scheduling the test during menstruation, as blood can interfere with the results.

Sample Collection Process by Speediagno Phlebotomist or Technician:

Speediagno follows standardized and sensitive protocols to ensure accurate and comfortable sample collection for vaginal smear examination.

1. Preparation for Sample Collection:

   • Identify the Patient: The technician confirms the patient’s identity using at least two identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth).
   • Consent and Explanation: The procedure is explained to the patient, including what to expect during the examination. Patient comfort and privacy are prioritized.

2. Sample Collection Process:

   • Hand Hygiene and PPE: The technician performs hand hygiene and wears gloves and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to maintain sterility.

   • Patient Positioning: The patient is asked to lie on an examination table, with knees bent and feet placed in stirrups, similar to a pelvic exam. A drape is provided for privacy.

   • Speculum Insertion:

     • A sterile, lubricated speculum is gently inserted into the vagina to widen the vaginal walls, allowing better access to the vaginal canal and cervix.
     • The insertion process is performed with care to minimize discomfort.

   • Sample Collection:

     • Using a sterile swab or spatula, a sample of vaginal discharge is gently collected from the vaginal walls.
     • The collected specimen is smeared onto a glass slide. Sometimes, additional slides are prepared for pH testing or saline and potassium hydroxide (KOH) wet mounts, which help detect specific infections.

3. Post-Collection Care:

   • Speculum Removal: The speculum is carefully removed, and the patient is allowed to clean up and dress in privacy.
   • Labeling and Sealing: The slide is labeled with the patient’s details, including the date and time of collection, and prepared for immediate examination under a microscope.

4. Safety and Hygiene Protocols:

   • Proper Disposal: Used swabs, gloves, and the speculum are disposed of in designated biohazard containers following safety protocols.
   • Documentation: The procedure is documented accurately, including any observations during the examination.

5. Laboratory Processing:

   • Microscopic Examination: The smear is examined under a microscope to look for abnormal cells, bacteria, yeast, trichomonas, white blood cells, and clue cells (indicative of bacterial vaginosis).
   • Additional Tests: pH testing and whiff tests (KOH preparation) may be conducted to provide further diagnostic information.

This professional and thorough approach to vaginal smear examination ensures accurate diagnosis of vaginal infections and other conditions, guiding appropriate treatment and care