In the cover slip technique, what is the final step?

In the cover slip technique, what is the final step?

• A. Place a second coverslip diagonally on top of the first
• B. Wave the coverslips gently to air dry
• C. Pull the coverslip apart in a single smooth motion
• D. Allow the blood to spread evenly between the two surfaces until the blood almost fills the area

Answer: (B)

The final step is to wave the coverslips gently to air dry. After the blood is sandwiched between two coverslips, you want a thin, uniform film that remains intact as it dries. Gentle waving helps the liquid evaporate evenly and prevents pooling, air bubbles, or tearing of the film, which preserves cell morphology for accurate microscopic evaluation. If you place the second coverslip diagonally, pull the coverslips apart, or let the space fill completely, you’d create artifacts or a smear that’s too thick and uneven for reliable analysis.

The final step is to wave the coverslips gently to air dry. After the blood is sandwiched between two coverslips, you want a thin, uniform film that remains intact as it dries. Gentle waving helps the liquid evaporate evenly and prevents pooling, air bubbles, or tearing of the film, which preserves cell morphology for accurate microscopic evaluation. If you place the second coverslip diagonally, pull the coverslips apart, or let the space fill completely, you’d create artifacts or a smear that’s too thick and uneven for reliable analysis.