1. INTRODUCTION TO LAB SAFETY

What is the purpose of standard precautions in lab safety?

To reduce the risk of transmission of microorganisms and prevent occupationally-acquired infection.

What should you do with lab coats when leaving the lab?

Remove them before moving into clean areas.

What hygiene practice is mandated as part of standard precautions?

Handwashing.

What is universal precautions?

Procedures for dealing with patient and test specimens based on the assumption that all patients may be positive for blood-borne pathogens.

In what year were body substance isolation procedures established?

1987.

What are routine practices and additional precautions?

Based on the premise that all laboratory samples are potentially infectious and require safe standards of practice.

What do standard precautions cover?

Handling all laboratory specimens, cleaning contaminated equipment, and handling blood or body fluid spills.

What is personal protective equipment (PPE)?

Clothing or equipment worn for personal protection against hazards.

What type of gloves should be worn in the lab?

Gloves appropriate for the task at hand that fit well without excess material.

When should masks be worn in the laboratory?

When required by infection control in healthcare settings.

What type of footwear is appropriate for laboratory work?

Closed toe and closed heel shoes with non-slip soles.

What is the last line of defense in the hierarchy of controls?

Personal protective equipment (PPE).

What should be done with contaminated gloves after use?

Wash hands and discard the gloves properly.

What is the role of education in standard precautions?

To ensure that individuals understand the procedures and practices that prevent exposure.

What are droplet precautions used for?

To reduce the risk of transmission of large droplets from the patient.

What is the most effective type of control listed in the hierarchy?

Engineering controls.

What is an example of a virus that requires airborne precautions?

Tuberculosis.

What must be done before donning personal protective equipment?

Perform hand hygiene.

What are additional precautions based on?

The classification of the patient as a risk for airborne, droplet, or contact transmission.

What is the objective of routine practices?

To prevent exposure to blood and body fluids.

When should eyewear protection like goggles or face shields be worn?

When handling biological hazards or chemicals.

What is the cleaning requirement for masks in healthcare settings?

Masks are generally single-use and should be discarded after use.

What is the significance of fit-testing for respirators?

It ensures that respirators provide an adequate seal against the face.

What do you do if your lab coat becomes contaminated?

Change it immediately and place it in a designated biohazard bag.

What should the PPE do when working with infectious specimens?

Prevent transmission of pathogens to the worker.

Which PPE should be worn when cleaning up a chemical spill?

Respirators (N95) and gloves.

What do isolation precautions involve?

Using specific practices based on the type of transmission risk associated with a patient.

What personal hygiene step protects mucous membranes in droplet precautions?

Wearing a surgical mask.

How are contaminated surfaces cleaned according to standard precautions?

Using appropriate cleaning agents and techniques.

What should you do when removing gloves to prevent contamination?

Use a glove-to-glove/skin-to-skin technique.

What is required when working with aerosolized biological agents?

Wearing an N95 respirator for respiratory protection.

What is the most common materials for surgical masks to filter out droplets?

Fabric and thickness based on the level of protection.

What should you do with PPE surfaces after use?

Minimize contact and discard appropriately.

What is the definition of isolation precautions?

Precautions based on the type of transmission risk to prevent infectious spread.

What type of gown should be used in contact precautions?

A gown that prevents contact with infected materials.

What should the gloves be removed before?

Touching any clean surfaces.

What is a procedure to ensure that equipment is handled safely post-evaluation?

Following proper decontamination processes.

What should be done to minimize contamination when removing eye protection?

Only handle clean parts, avoiding contact with the contaminated surfaces.

What type of PPE must be donned before entering an isolation area?

Full protective gear including gown, gloves, mask, and eyewear.

What is the first step when donning PPE?

Perform hand hygiene.

What type of mask needs to fit securely for protection?

N95 Respirator.

What should you remove first when doffing PPE?

Gloves.

Which type of PPE is most appropriate when dealing with airborne pathogens?

N95 Respirator plus gown and goggles.

What documentation of procedures is critical in lab safety?

Training records and incident logs.

What is the significance of hand hygiene?

It helps to eliminate pathogens that can lead to infection.

What do face shields protect against?

They protect from splashes and projectiles.

What is a key characteristic of footwear suitable for laboratory settings?

It must be closed-toe.

Why are gloves changed after each patient contact?

To prevent cross-contamination between patients.

What must individuals do to comply with blood-borne pathogen precautions?

Receive training and adhere to established safety protocols.

How should contaminated gowns be disposed of?

They should be placed in designated biohazard containers.

What is important about the order of donning and doffing PPE?

Following the correct order minimizes risk of exposure.

What additional precautions may be needed for patients exhibiting symptoms of respiratory illness?

Both droplet and airborne precautions may be necessary.

Which agency regulates PPE standards and requirements?

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

What are best practices for cleaning surfaces contaminated with blood or body fluids?

Use appropriate disinfectants and follow safety guidelines.

When should you wear a respirator during lab tasks?

When exposure to airborne pathogens is possible.

What is one type of personal protective clothing?

Lab coats.

What should be done after handling a contaminated item or area?

Perform hand hygiene immediately.

What must be included in personal protective equipment training?

Correct usage and disposal methods.

What are the indications for using goggles in the lab?

For protection against impacts, projectiles, and splashes.