CLINICAL LAB SCIENEC

CHAPTER 12: PROCEDURES FOR URINALYSIS AND BODY FLUIDS 303
FIGURE 12-13 Approximately 10 mL urine is centrifuged in
preparation for staining and a microscopic examination of
sediment.
Source: Delmar/Cengage Learning.
FIGURE 12-14 Technologist performing microscopic exams
using StatSpin CenSlide urinalysis system.
Source: Delmar/Cengage Learning.
b. With dissolution of hemoglobin in old or hypotonic urine specimens, RBCs
may appear as faint, colorless circles or ghost cells.
c. With hypertonic urine specimens, RBCs may appear crenated with irregular
edges and surfaces.
13. Scan at least 10 to 15 fields using the high-power objective. Count and record the
average number of white blood cells (WBCs). If more than 100 WBCs are present,
record >100/HPF in the Procedure Report Form. Note: The oil immersion objective
is NOT used for the microscopic examination of urine specimens.
14. If the microscopic field is obscured by more than 100 WBCs/HPF, dilute the
sample with saline so all cells and other elements may be counted. Add 2 drops
of saline to 1 drop of mixed urine sediment and place a drop of this mixture on the
slide. If the sample is diluted, see Step #13 for correcting the values obtained for
elements of the sediment that are enumerated.
15. When a dilution with saline is required due to an extremely high concentration of
certain constituents, the clinical laboratory personnel must multiply the average
number of elements counted by the dilution factor (e.g., 12 yeast seen/LPF × 3
(dilution factor) = 36 yeasts/HPF).
16. Using the high-power objective, continue scanning for crystals, yeast, bacteria,
epithelial cells, mucus, and other formed elements. Count and record in the Procedure
Report Form the elements seen per HPF.
17. Discard all contaminated supplies used for this procedure. If microscope slides
with sharp corners were used, place in appropriate sharps containers. A disinfectant
should be used to clean work surfaces and equipment should be cleaned
and restored to its former position. Discard gloves appropriately and wash hands
thoroughly in accordance with departmental policies.
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