Purpose
To prepare a wet mount for immediate microscopic examination.
Scope
This procedure applies to trained microbiology laboratory personnel working within an approved quality-management and biosafety system.
Principle
A fresh preparation allows observation of cells, microorganisms or structures without fixation, preserving features relevant to the intended examination.
Specimen / Test Material
Fresh clinical material or culture material suitable for the validated examination.
Equipment and Materials
- Clean slide and cover glass
- Approved mounting liquid or physiological medium
- Microscope
Procedure
- Verify specimen identity.
- Place an appropriate amount of material on a clean slide.
- Add the validated liquid where required.
- Apply a cover glass while minimizing bubbles.
- Examine promptly using the appropriate objectives.
- Record relevant observations.
Quality Control and Quality Assurance
Use clean materials and examine promptly to minimize drying and artefact.
Reporting
Report findings according to the intended specimen-specific examination.
Safety
Use risk-based biosafety practices, appropriate personal protective equipment and approved decontamination and waste-disposal procedures. Treat clinical specimens and cultures according to the laboratory's biological risk assessment.
References
- World Health Organization (WHO): Toolkit for Standard Operating Procedures for Bacteriology, Mycology and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing.
- WHO: Laboratory Biosafety Manual, 4th edition.
- WHO guidance on collection, packaging and transport of infectious substances.
- EUCAST methodology and quality-control guidance for antimicrobial susceptibility testing, where applicable.
- Current locally approved laboratory procedures and validated manufacturer instructions.