McMaster's Method 8 Jan 24

What is the first step in McMaster's Method for counting eggs in feces?

• Add saturated salt solution

• Weigh 3 g of feces into a jar

• Mix contents by glass beads

• Filter through a mesh screen

Answer explanation

The first step in McMaster's Method is to weigh 3 g of feces into a jar. This initial measurement is crucial for accurate egg counting in subsequent steps.

What is used to mix the contents in McMaster's Method?

• A spoon

• A whisk

• Glass beads, automixer, or pestle and mortar

• A blender

Answer explanation

McMaster's Method utilizes glass beads, an automixer, or a pestle and mortar to effectively mix the contents. These tools ensure thorough mixing, unlike a spoon or whisk, which are less effective for this purpose.

What is the purpose of using a 10x microscope in McMaster's Method?

• To weigh the feces

• To add the salt solution

• To count all eggs within the ruled areas

• To mix the contents

Answer explanation

The 10x microscope is used in McMaster's Method primarily to count all eggs within the ruled areas of the counting chamber, allowing for accurate quantification of eggs in a fecal sample.

What is the dilution ratio of the saturated salt solution used in McMaster's Method?

• 1:10

• 1:15

• 1:20

• 1:25

Answer explanation

In McMaster's Method, the dilution ratio of the saturated salt solution is specifically 1:15. This ratio is crucial for accurate results in the method, making 1:15 the correct choice among the options provided.

What is a disadvantage of McMaster's Method?

• Eggs float up for easy counting

• No interfering fecal material

• Liable to miss light infestation

• Fast and fairly accurate

Answer explanation

A disadvantage of McMaster's Method is that it is liable to miss light infestations, meaning it may not detect low levels of eggs, which can lead to underestimating the presence of parasites.

What is the main advantage of using McMaster's Method for counting eggs?

• It requires expensive equipment

• It allows for easy visualization of eggs

• It can be performed in the field

• It is time-consuming

Answer explanation

The main advantage of McMaster's Method is that it allows for easy visualization of eggs, making it simpler to count and assess them accurately compared to other methods that may require more complex setups.

How many grams of feces are typically used in McMaster's Method?

• 3 g

• 1 g

• 2 g

• 5 g

Answer explanation

In McMaster's Method, the standard amount of feces used is 3 grams. This quantity is essential for accurate results in the analysis.

What type of eggs are primarily counted using McMaster's Method?

• Bird eggs

• Parasite eggs

• Insect eggs

• Fish eggs

Answer explanation

McMaster's Method is primarily used for counting parasite eggs in fecal samples, making 'Parasite eggs' the correct choice. This method helps in estimating the level of parasitic infections in animals.

What is the ideal temperature for preparing the saturated salt solution in McMaster's Method?

• Room temperature

• Cold

• Hot

• Freezing

Answer explanation

The ideal temperature for preparing the saturated salt solution in McMaster's Method is room temperature. This ensures proper solubility and stability of the solution, making it suitable for accurate measurements.

How long should the fecal sample be mixed with the salt solution in McMaster's Method?

• 10 minutes

• 15 minutes

• 1 minute

• 5 minutes

Answer explanation

In McMaster's Method, the fecal sample should be mixed with the salt solution for 5 minutes. This duration ensures proper mixing and accurate results in counting eggs or cysts.