Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

Which of the following is not a reason to keep clear, accurate records of daily room checks?

1. The AVMA requires daily room check records to be kept

2. To track animal behavior patterns

3. For compliance with regulatory agencies

4. To ensure environmental conditions are optimal

The correct answer is: The AVMA requires daily room check records to be kept

Maintaining clear and accurate records of daily room checks is crucial for several reasons related to animal care and facility management. The first reason mentioned—tracking animal behavior patterns—helps in identifying any changes that may indicate health issues or stress among the animals. This can be vital for timely interventions and can contribute to the overall welfare of the animals in the facility. Similarly, ensuring that environmental conditions are optimal is another essential aspect of record-keeping. Accurate records provide data that help in assessing whether the animals are housed in settings that meet their physiological and psychological needs, thus promoting their well-being. In addition, compliance with regulatory agencies is a critical reason for keeping these records. Regulatory bodies often require documentation to verify that facilities are adhering to established standards and protocols, which ultimately ensures animal welfare and ethical treatment. While the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) may have guidelines regarding animal care, the specific requirement to keep daily room check records is more accurately related to statutory and regulatory compliance rather than a distinct requirement from the AVMA itself. Thus, keeping records for the reason given in the first choice may not be accurate compared to the other motivations for record-keeping.