Improving cytologic samples from the uterine cervix: a simple visual instruction.
OBJECTIVE
To improve the quality of smears from uterine cervix.


METHODS
Fifteen photographs of different types of cervixes (nulliparous, multiparous, ectopia, and others) were shown to a group of physicians and technicians who send samples to our laboratory. We had previously evaluated accuracy of sampling the transformation zone and compared results of the test group with our previous evaluation using Student's t test.


RESULTS
The rate of transformation zone sampling increased from 45% to 77% (p = 0.0001) after physicians and technicians saw the photographs and received instructions.


CONCLUSIONS
This method is simple and very effective for the improving sampling of the uterine cervix by clinicians and other health providers.
Curiel-Valdés
José de Jesús
Jde J
Laboratorio de Patología Notre Dame Hospital, Mexico City, Mexico. josecurielvaldes@hotmail.com