Question

Swab vaginal area, rub on slide, under a microscope, it should look like a fern; positive indicates rupture of membranes (ROM).

a) Nitrazine test
b) Fern test
c) Whiff test
d) Pap smear

Answer 1

The 'fern test' is the correct answer, used for detecting the rupture of membranes by observing a 'fern' pattern in dried vaginal secretions under a microscope.

Step-by-step explanation:

The test being referred to is known as the Fern test, which is used to detect the rupture of membranes (ROM) in pregnancy. When vaginal secretions are placed on a slide and allowed to dry, the presence of amniotic fluid will show a characteristic 'fern' pattern under the microscope. This is due to the crystallization of sodium chloride present in the amniotic fluid. This test is distinct from a Nitrazine test which assesses the pH of vaginal secretions, a Whiff test which is used to detect bacterial vaginosis by releasing a fishy odor after adding alkali, and a Pap smear which is a procedure where cells from the cervix are examined under a microscope to check for abnormalities.