Laboratory Diagnostics

Question 1

Normal pH of Vaginal Secretions

Answer 1

3.8-4.5

Question 2

How is vaginal pH testing done?

Answer 2

pH paper on lateral side of the vagina

Question 3

What conditions can occur with a vaginal pH higher than 4.5?

Answer 3

Bacterial vaginosis
Trichomoniasis
Atrophic vaginitis
Rupture of membranes in pregnancy

Question 4

Indications for a Vaginal Wet Mount

Answer 4

Itching
Burning
Rash
Odor
Discharge

Question 5

Interfering Factors with a Vaginal Wet Mount

Answer 5

Not during menses
Avoid vaginal meds for 2-3 days prior
Vaginal irritation from tampons or intercourse

Question 6

White Cells of Vaginal Secretions

Answer 6

Should be

Question 7

Clue Cells of Vaginal Secretions

Answer 7

Vaginal epithelial cells that are covered with bacteria

Have shaggy borders

Question 8

Describe Normal Vaginal Epithelial Cells

Answer 8

Sharp, distinct borders

Question 9

Lactobacilli in Vaginal Secretions

Answer 9

Normal flora

Question 10

What conditions cause fewer lactobacilli to be present?

Answer 10

Yeast vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis

Question 11

Describe Trichomonads

Answer 11

Mobile & zoom around the slide

Contain small tails

Question 12

What does KOH do to vaginal secretions?

Answer 12

Removes normal cells & bacteria

Clears field so yeast buds & hyphae may be seen

Question 13

Whiff Test with KOH

Answer 13

Apply KOH to slide and smell for amine (fishy) odor

Question 14

What does NAAT stand for?

Answer 14

Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing

Question 15

What sample is best for NAAT testing in women?

Answer 15

Vaginal fluid or endocervix

Question 16

If doing a urine sample for NAAT testing, when should the patient get the sample?

Answer 16

Delayed 1 hour after last void

First-catch (10-30 cc)