While the segmented neutrophils are easy to identify in this smear, the large number of cells makes it difficult to evaluate this smear for the presence of bacteria or other infectious agents.
The nucleated cell count must be performed prior to preparing the cytocentrifuge slide, as the volume of sample used is dependent on the cell count. Specific procedures vary by instrument manufacturer, but Table 1 lists the general guidelines for preparation of body fluid cytocentrifuge slides.
Table 1. Volume of Specimen Used for Slide Preparation | Nucleated Cell Count | Volume of Specimen Used |
| 1 - 500/µL | 10 drops |
| 500 - 1000/µL | 5 drops |
| 1000 - 10,000/µL | 3 drops |
| >10,000/µL | Sample must be diluted |
