The purpose of adding potassium hydroxide (KOH) to a cervical smear is to ____.

A) dissolve epithelial cells and mucus
B) stain any fungi that might be present for better visibility
C) kill any bacteria that might be present
D) provide a nutritious medium for any organisms in the wet mount
E) stabilize the cervical cells

Potassium Hydroxide

A chemical compound with the formula KOH, known for its strong alkaline properties and widely used in various industrial and chemical processes.

Cervical Smear

A medical test, also known as a Pap smear, used to detect pre-cancerous and cancerous cells in the cervix.

Wet Mount

A laboratory technique in which a liquid sample is placed between a slide and cover slip to observe under a microscope.