Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

What is a potential consequence of not reconnecting the water line after changing cage racks?

1. Increased chance of cage contamination

2. Overcrowding of the animals

3. Dehydration or death of the animals

4. Increased noise levels in the animal room

The correct answer is: Dehydration or death of the animals

The potential consequence of not reconnecting the water line after changing cage racks is dehydration or death of the animals. Laboratory animals rely on a continuous supply of fresh water to maintain their health. When the water line is disconnected, they lose access to this vital resource, which can quickly lead to dehydration, a serious condition that can affect their physiological processes and overall well-being. If the situation is not remedied in a timely manner, it can lead to severe consequences, including death, particularly in small animals that can become dehydrated rapidly. The other choices, while potentially relevant to different circumstances in a laboratory setting, do not directly relate to the immediate and serious impact of interrupting water access. Overcrowding may occur due to mismanagement of animal populations, increased noise levels could be influenced by animal behavior or facility conditions, and cage contamination would typically arise from improper cleaning or handling procedures. However, the direct and life-threatening issue of dehydration makes the correct answer the most significant concern in this scenario.