When using hematoxylin for staining, what is typically the next step after staining?

When using hematoxylin for staining, the next step after staining involves the application of a counterstain. Hematoxylin provides a blue coloration that primarily highlights cellular nuclei, making them prominent within tissue sections. However, for enhanced contrast and to visualize other cellular components, a counterstain, such as eosin, is often applied. This allows for the differentiation of various structures within the tissue, as the counterstain will color different elements, helping to provide a more comprehensive view of the histological features.

While immediate observation under a microscope can be done after staining, it is not the typical next step and does not utilize the full potential of the staining process. Washing the tissue with water is also crucial prior to the application of a counterstain to remove excess hematoxylin, but it typically does not occur immediately after staining. Embedding the tissue in paraffin happens later in the histological preparation process and is not a direct step following the staining.