Microbiology Chapter 13 Test Bank Related

Review Microbiology Chapter 13 Test Bank related questions and content

During the skill-building session in microbiology the students need to stain the prepared and fixed sputum smears obtained from a tuberculosis patient. What staining technique should be used in this case?

  • A. Gram
  • B. Giemsa
  • C. Ziehl-Neelsen
  • D. Burry
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct staining technique for staining sputum smears from a tuberculosis patient is Ziehl-Neelsen staining. This technique uses a carbol fuchsin stain that specifically stains acid-fast organisms like Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The steps involved include staining with carbol fuchsin, decolorizing with acid-alcohol, counterstaining with methylene blue, and then examining under a microscope. This staining method is crucial for detecting the acid-fast bacilli characteristic of tuberculosis.

Explanation for incorrect choices:
A: Gram staining is used to differentiate bacteria into Gram-positive and Gram-negative, not suitable for acid-fast organisms like Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
B: Giemsa staining is used for detecting parasites and certain types of white blood cells, not specific for acid-fast bacteria.
D: Burry staining is not a recognized staining technique in microbiology for staining acid-fast organisms.