Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

What is one of the primary functions of isolation in veterinary practices?

1. To promote animal interaction.

2. To conduct research.

3. To prevent disease spread.

4. To reduce handling stress.

The correct answer is: To prevent disease spread.

One of the primary functions of isolation in veterinary practices is to prevent disease spread. Isolation protocols are essential for controlling infectious diseases within a veterinary setting, particularly when there are patients that might be carriers of pathogens that could affect other animals. By isolating sick animals or those suspected of having a contagious illness, veterinary practices can minimize the risk of transmission to healthy animals. This is particularly crucial in environments where a variety of species are present, as differing immune responses and susceptibility to diseases can vary widely among them. In contrast, promoting animal interaction may lead to increased stress or potential transmission of diseases, which is contrary to the purpose of isolation. Conducting research typically does not require isolation unless the research pertains specifically to infectious diseases, and even then, it is usually more about containment rather than isolation itself. Reducing handling stress is also important in veterinary care, but it is not the main objective of isolation; rather, isolation often requires more handling and attention to ensure that the isolated animals remain comfortable and safe.