Which of the following is used to take cervical smear?

Appeared in: WCL Staff Nurse - 2019

Explanation

The instrument shown in the image and asked about in the question is an Ayre's spatula.
It is specifically designed with a contoured shape to effectively scrape cells from the ectocervix and the transformation zone of the cervix.
This scraping action is the method used to collect a sample for a Papanicolaou (Pap) test, which is the definition of a cervical smear.
The goal is to obtain a representative sample of cells for cytological analysis to screen for cervical cancer and other abnormalities.

Option A: A colposcope is a binocular magnifying instrument used to visually inspect the cervix, not to collect the smear itself.
Option B: A vaginoscope is an endoscope used for visualizing the vagina.
Option D: Forceps are general-purpose instruments used for grasping, holding, or removing tissue.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Instruments for gynecological examination and procedures as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
The nurse's role is crucial in patient education before a Pap smear, including instructions to avoid douching, sexual intercourse, or using vaginal medications for 48 hours prior to the test, as these can interfere with the results.
Ensuring correct sample collection technique is vital for the accuracy of the Pap test. An inadequate sample can lead to a false-negative result, potentially delaying the diagnosis and treatment of cervical abnormalities.
What if? If a patient is postmenopausal, the transformation zone may recede into the endocervical canal. In this case, an endocervical brush (cytobrush) is typically used along with the spatula to ensure an adequate sample from the endocervix is collected.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the object in the image. It is a specially shaped wooden spatula.
Second, recall the name and function of this instrument. This is an Ayre's spatula, used in gynecology.
Third, analyze the question, which asks for the instrument used to 'take a cervical smear'.
Fourth, connect the instrument's function to the question's requirement. The Ayre's spatula is the classic tool for collecting cells from the cervix for a Pap smear.
Finally, evaluate the given options to find the correct term. 'Ayre's spatula' is listed as option C, which matches the identification.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Gynecology Williams p. 213-259

Practise the full WCL Staff Nurse - 2019

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.