Which instrument is used to sample both squamous and columnar epithelium in a single specimen?

• A. The Cervical Broom
• B. The Speculum
• C. The Cytology Brush
• D. Endocervical Brush

Answer: (A)

Sampling both squamous and columnar epithelium in one specimen hinges on reaching the transformation zone, where these two types meet. The cervical broom is designed to sweep around that zone and collect cells from both surfaces in a single pass, so the sample contains a mix of ectocervical squamous cells and endocervical columnar cells. This makes it the best choice for obtaining a representative Pap smear with dual epithelial types. The speculum simply opens the vagina for view; an endocervical brush targets the endocervical canal (columnar cells) separately, and a cytology brush mainly collects endocervical cells or may not reliably capture both surfaces in one specimen.