AAT Risk Management Protocols 3

Question 1

Which infection control practice is considered MANDATORY after every AAT session involving direct animal contact?

Accepted Answer

Handwashing with soap and water or use of alcohol-based hand sanitizer

Answer

Hand hygiene after animal contact is a foundational infection control measure to prevent zoonotic pathogen transmission to humans.

Question 2

When developing a facility-specific AAT risk management plan, which stakeholder group is MOST critical to include?

Accepted Answer

Infection control officers and facility administration

Answer

Infection control officers and administration establish facility policy authority and ensure AAT protocols align with healthcare safety standards.

Question 3

An AAT dog passes its annual health screening but begins showing lameness between visits. The handler should:

Accepted Answer

Suspend the animal from AAT work and seek veterinary evaluation immediately

Answer

Any new health concern requires prompt veterinary evaluation before the animal continues AAT work, as pain can increase bite risk and animal distress.

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of an animal's 'opt-out' or escape route during an AAT session?

Accepted Answer

To give the animal agency and reduce forced compliance that increases stress

Answer

Providing escape routes gives the therapy animal behavioral choice, reducing chronic stress and the likelihood of defensive aggression.

Question 5

A client discloses a recent MRSA infection during an AAT intake assessment. The MOST appropriate response is to:

Accepted Answer

Defer animal contact and consult with the treatment team regarding infection status

Answer

While MRSA is not typically zoonotic from client to animal, active infections signal immune compromise and require medical team consultation before animal contact.

(AAT) Certified Animal-Assisted Therapy Practice Test

(AAT) Certified Animal-Assisted Therapy Practice Test

AAT Risk Management Protocols 3