Which method is used to prepare a bone marrow smear?

The method to prepare a bone marrow smear involves the use of a slide to create a thin film of the bone marrow sample. This technique ensures that individual cells are well-distributed and easily visualized under a microscope, which is essential for accurate examination and diagnosis of hematologic conditions.

In preparation, a small drop of the bone marrow aspirate is placed on one slide, and then another slide is used to spread the sample by moving it across the surface to create a thin layer. The goal is to have a well-stained, clear view of the cells, allowing for detailed assessment of the cellular morphology, which is crucial in diagnosing diseases like leukemia or various anemias.

The other methods mentioned are not appropriate for preparing a bone marrow smear. Using a centrifuge, for instance, would separate the components of the sample rather than provide a smear for microscopic examination. Similarly, covering the sample with paraffin or attempting to make a film directly on a glass plate would not yield the necessary thin layer of cells required for optimal visualization. Hence, using a slide to smear the sample is the standard and effective technique in this procedure.