Question

Why is it best to use an older culture when performing the acid-fast stain?

Option 1: To enhance staining efficiency and improve visibility of acid-fast bacteria.
Option 2: To reduce the risk of contamination during the staining process.
Option 3: To speed up the staining procedure for time efficiency.
Option 4: To minimize the impact of culture age on staining accuracy.

Answer 1

Using an older culture enhances staining efficiency and improves visibility of acid-fast bacteria in the acid-fast stain.

Step-by-step explanation:

When performing the acid-fast stain, it is best to use an older culture to enhance staining efficiency and improve visibility of acid-fast bacteria. The mycolic acid in the cell wall of acid-fast bacteria makes it difficult for stains to penetrate the cell. Using an older culture allows more time for the staining solution to penetrate the cells and produce a clearer and more accurate stain.