Safety & Infection Control Flashcards
7 cards from real MLS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Safety & Infection Control flashcards as text
A laboratory finds that multiple staff members are developing respiratory symptoms after working in the same section. The MOST appropriate initial investigation is to:
Answer: Review the chemical inventory and ventilation in that work area
Reviewing the chemical inventory and HVAC ventilation is the logical first step to identify a potential chemical or biological environmental source.
Which biosafety level (BSL) is required when working with agents that pose a HIGH risk of life-threatening disease transmitted via aerosol for which no vaccine or therapy exists?
Answer: BSL-4
BSL-4 facilities handle the most dangerous agents with no available countermeasures, requiring full pressure suits or cabinet lines.
What is the correct disposal method for used sharps in the clinical laboratory?
Answer: Place in a puncture-resistant, leak-proof sharps container at the point of use
Sharps must be discarded immediately after use into a puncture-resistant, leak-proof container located at the point of use to prevent needlestick injuries.
An autoclave used for steam sterilization should be validated using biological indicators containing spores of:
Answer: Geobacillus stearothermophilus
Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores are the standard biological indicator for steam (moist heat) sterilization validation due to their high heat resistance.
Which personal protective equipment is required when handling concentrated acids in the clinical chemistry laboratory?
Answer: Nitrile gloves, chemical splash goggles, and acid-resistant apron
Concentrated acids require chemical-resistant nitrile gloves, splash goggles (not standard glasses), and an acid-resistant apron to protect against splashes and vapor.
The purpose of the eyewash station in the laboratory is to flush chemicals from the eyes for a minimum of:
Answer: 15 minutes
ANSI Z358.1 requires a minimum of 15 minutes of continuous flushing of chemical splashes to the eyes to adequately dilute and remove hazardous material.
In the laboratory's exposure control plan, which element defines which employees are at risk for occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens?
Answer: Exposure determination
The exposure determination section of the exposure control plan identifies job classifications and tasks where occupational exposure may occur.