How to Make a Blood Smear and Stain with Diff-Quik

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Free for Elite Members

April 2025

In this VETgirl online veterinary continuing education video, we demonstrate how to make a blood smear and stain it using a Romanowski stain.  In this example we use Diff-Quik, to perform cytologic evaluation of blood samples. Variations in staining technique exist based on personal preference and stain manufacturer directions. Making blood smears with appropriately distributed monolayer of cells allows performing manual white blood cell differential counts, platelet estimates, red blood cell morphology assessment, and identification of select pathogens (e.g. intra or extracellular bacteria and parasites). It is often performed to verify findings of automatic complete blood count analyzers. This valuable veterinary technician skill assists the veterinarian in establishing a diagnosis and developing an appropriate patient care plan. 

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