Hologic ThinPrep 5000, Operator'S Manual

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ThinPrep™ 5000 Processor with AutoLoader Operator’s Manual
10.1
10
S
TAINING AND
C
OVERSLIPPING
C h a p t e r T e n
Staining and Coverslipping
GENERAL
Following is a description of recommended guidelines for fixation procedures, staining protocols, and
coverslipping methods.
Note:
There is wide variation among laboratories in fixation, staining, and coverslipping methods
employed for cytologic specimens. The thin layer characteristics of ThinPrep
™
processor- pre-
pared slides allow precise assessment of the effects of these differences in protocols and
allows the laboratory personnel to optimize their methods by following the general guide-
lines provided in this section. These guidelines are recommendations and should not be con-
sidered absolute requirements.
FIXATION
The ThinPrep 5000 processor with AutoLoader deposits completed slides into a staining rack
immersed in a fixative bath that contains 95% reagent alcohol or 95% ethyl alcohol. Use the following
procedure to fix ThinPrep microscope slide preparations.
• Gyn slides: ThinPrep microscope slides should be fixed for at least 10 minutes prior to
staining.
• For Gyn slides intended for use with the ThinPrep
™
Imaging System: ThinPrep
microscope slides should be fixed for at least 10 minutes prior to staining.
Note:
If the slides are being prepared for use with the ThinPrep Imaging System, please refer to the
Image Processor Operator’s Manual first.
• Non-Gyn slides: ThinPrep microscope slides should be fixed for at least 10 minutes prior to
staining or application of fixative spray.
Note:
Some non-gyn slides will drop into a dry bath or PreservCyt Solution, depending on the type
being run.
Change the fixative every 100 slides, or once per day, whichever comes first.
SECTION
A
SECTION
B