Which type of sample is not typically used for direct smears?

Fecal samples are generally not used for direct smears because they require specific processing to detect pathogens or parasites effectively. While direct smears can provide quick information, fecal samples often need to be concentrated or treated to visualize specific organisms, such as ova or cysts, which might not be easily seen in a direct smear context. Other sample types, such as throat swabs, nasal swabs, and sputum, lend themselves more readily to the direct smear technique, as these samples can provide immediate insights into bacterial or viral infections without the need for extensive preprocessing.