Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

What type of injury can occur from opening an autoclave to remove instruments?

1. Frostbite

2. Burns from steam

3. Electrical shock

4. Chemical exposure

The correct answer is: Burns from steam

Opening an autoclave to remove instruments can lead to burns from steam. Autoclaves operate by using pressurized steam to sterilize equipment, creating high temperatures that can be dangerous if the autoclave is opened prematurely or without proper personal protective equipment. The steam inside is at a temperature that can cause severe burns upon contact with skin or other surfaces. In the context of this scenario, while frostbite could be a concern in certain extreme cold environments or if cryogenic liquids are used, it is not relevant to an autoclave, which operates using hot steam. Electrical shock could occur in various laboratory settings but is unrelated to the actions involved in using an autoclave and is not a risk directly associated with its operation. Chemical exposure is also not applicable, as the sterilization process in an autoclave primarily involves steam and heat rather than chemicals that could pose a risk of exposure. Thus, the correct understanding focuses on the risk of burns from steam when handling autoclaved instruments.