ASCP Microtomy and Cryostat Techniques 3

Question 1

What is the recommended water bath temperature for floating paraffin sections before mounting?

Accepted Answer

40–45°C

Answer

A water bath at 40–45°C is warm enough to relax and flatten paraffin sections without melting the wax.

Question 2

What is the trimming step in paraffin block preparation used for?

Accepted Answer

Removing excess paraffin to expose the tissue face

Answer

Trimming removes excess paraffin and exposes the full tissue face so diagnostic-quality sections can be cut.

Question 3

Which type of microtome is best suited for cutting undecalcified bone sections?

Accepted Answer

Sliding microtome

Answer

A sliding (sledge) microtome with a heavy-duty blade is suited for hard tissues like undecalcified bone because it exerts more force.

Question 4

What is the function of the heat plate or slide warmer after mounting sections?

Accepted Answer

To melt and drive out water and adhere the section to the slide

Answer

The slide warmer (55–60°C) melts paraffin slightly and drives out water, ensuring the section adheres firmly to the slide.

Question 5

What causes the 'venetian blind' artifact in paraffin sections?

Accepted Answer

Alternating thick and thin areas due to incomplete ribbon advancement

Answer

The venetian blind effect results from uneven section thickness caused by inconsistent block advancement between cuts.

ASCP - Histotechnician Test Practice Test