Scotch tape swab is used to identify?

RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2018

Applied Microbiology & Infection control

Easy

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2018

Explanation

The Scotch tape swab test is the specific and standard diagnostic method for pinworm (Enterobius vermicularis) infection.
This method is used because the female pinworm migrates to the perianal skin, especially at night, to deposit her eggs.
The adhesive tape is effective at collecting these eggs from the skin for microscopic identification.
Pinworm eggs are rarely found in stool samples, making stool examination an unreliable diagnostic method for this particular parasite.

Option A: Tapeworm infections are not diagnosed with a tape test. The diagnosis is confirmed by identifying tapeworm eggs or proglottids (segments of the worm) in a stool sample.
Option C: Ancylostoma is a genus of hookworm. Hookworm infections are diagnosed by finding their characteristic eggs through microscopic examination of a stool sample.
Option D: Hookworm is a general term that includes parasites like Ancylostoma and Necator. The standard diagnostic method is a stool examination for eggs, not a tape test.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Diagnostic procedures for parasitic infections as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Correct sample collection is crucial for an accurate diagnosis. The nurse must instruct the patient or caregiver to perform the test first thing in the morning, before bathing or having a bowel movement, to maximize the chance of collecting eggs.
Patient education is a key nursing role. The primary symptom is intense perianal itching (pruritus ani), especially at night. Educating the family about this symptom helps in seeking a timely diagnosis and understanding the need for the specific test.
Because pinworms are easily transmitted, all household members and close contacts are often treated simultaneously to prevent reinfection, even if they are asymptomatic.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of specific diagnostic procedures for common infections.
First, identify the key procedure mentioned in the stem: 'Scotch tape swab'.
Next, recall the life cycles and diagnostic methods for the parasites listed in the options.
Associate the Scotch tape test with the parasite whose eggs are deposited on the perianal skin rather than being consistently passed in the feces.
This unique egg-laying behavior is characteristic of the pinworm (Enterobius vermicularis).
Eliminate the other options. Tapeworms and hookworms (including Ancylostoma) are primarily diagnosed through the examination of stool samples for eggs or worm segments.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Ghai Essential Pediatrics(pp 26-904 of 913) p. 287-289

E6 Pathology- ROBBINS & COTRAN PATHOLOGIC BASIS OF DISEASE 10TH Ed p. 798-800

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Taylor p. 619-621