CVA Laboratory Techniques and Diagnostic Procedures 2

Question 1

What is the principle behind a fecal flotation test?

Accepted Answer

Parasite eggs float in a high-density solution while debris sinks, concentrating eggs at the surface

Answer

Fecal flotation uses a solution denser than parasite eggs but lighter than most debris, causing eggs to float for microscopic identification.

Question 2

What does a refractometer measure with urine, and what is normal for dogs?

Accepted Answer

Urine specific gravity (concentration), normal 1.015-1.045

Answer

A refractometer measures urine specific gravity by determining how light bends, reflecting solute concentration. Normal for dogs is 1.015-1.045.

Question 3

What is the purpose of Romanowsky-type staining (Diff-Quik or Wright's) of blood smears?

Accepted Answer

To differentially color cellular components for microscopic identification of cell types

Answer

Romanowsky stains use acidic and basic dyes that differentially color nuclei purple/blue and cytoplasm pink/blue, enabling cell identification.

Question 4

What organ systems does a serum chemistry panel evaluate?

Accepted Answer

Liver enzymes, kidney values, electrolytes, glucose, and proteins to assess organ function

Answer

A chemistry panel measures analytes reflecting liver (ALT, ALP), kidney (BUN, creatinine), pancreas (lipase), and metabolic status (glucose, electrolytes).

Question 5

What does a positive heartworm ELISA test detect?

Accepted Answer

Adult female heartworm antigen

Answer

Most commercial tests detect glycoprotein antigen from adult female Dirofilaria immitis, detectable at least 6-7 months post-infection.

(CVA) Certified Veterinary Assistant Practice Test

(CVA) Certified Veterinary Assistant Practice Test

CVA Laboratory Techniques and Diagnostic Procedures 2