Final answer:
Bloody pelvic washings not in fixative from patients with history of carcinoma must be sent to the cytology lab, centrifuged, and examined through cytological methods for the presence of malignant cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
When dealing with bloody pelvic washings not in fixative with a known history of carcinoma, it is important to follow proper pathological processing protocols. These specimens should be treated as potentially containing malignant cells and should be promptly sent to the cytology laboratory for evaluation. The sample should be centrifuged, and the sediment should be prepared for cytological examination.
This could involve creating slides and staining them to identify and assess any malignant cells. Documentation of the process and clear communication between the surgical team and the pathology laboratory are crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.