Under-decolorized smear from Reading Gram Stained Direct Smears, presented by MediaLab

Choosing Microscopic Fields

Under-decolorized smear

Although this smear is the proper thickness, it is not appropriate for examination because the nonbacterial elements are stained blue instead of red.
In addition, small flecks of precipitated stain are present.
Notice that the precipitated stain is irregular in shape, which helps differentiate the flecks from bacteria.
The stain should be filtered before using.

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