Veterinary Technician Practice Exam

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What type of solution is used in fecal smears to determine the presence of ova?

Distilled water
Saline
Povidone-iodine
Acetic acid

The correct answer is: Saline

The correct choice for the type of solution used in fecal smears to determine the presence of ova is saline. Saline is an isotonic solution that helps preserve the integrity of the ova during the preparation of the fecal smear. It maintains osmotic balance, which prevents the ova from lysing, or breaking apart, thereby allowing for a clearer examination under the microscope. Distilled water is hypotonic, which could cause cellular components, including ova, to burst, making it unsuitable for this purpose. Povidone-iodine is an antiseptic that can distort cellular structures, making it less effective for identifying ova in fecal samples. Acetic acid, while it can be used in some staining procedures, is not commonly used for preparing fecal smears due to its destructive effects on cell membranes and ova, making it a poor choice for this application.