Emergency Procedures & Response Flashcards
7 cards from real MLS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Emergency Procedures & Response flashcards as text
An MLS drops a large container of liquid nitrogen in the laboratory. What is the primary hazard of this event?
Answer: Cryogenic burns and rapid oxygen depletion causing asphyxiation risk
Liquid nitrogen rapidly vaporizes into nitrogen gas, displacing oxygen and creating an asphyxiation risk in addition to causing severe cryogenic contact injuries.
Which document serves as the laboratory's written plan required by OSHA detailing how it will protect workers from bloodborne pathogen exposure?
Answer: Exposure Control Plan (ECP)
The Exposure Control Plan is the OSHA-required written document detailing procedures, engineering controls, and protocols to minimize bloodborne pathogen exposure.
During a flooding emergency in the laboratory basement where specimens are processed, the FIRST priority for the MLS on duty is:
Answer: Personal safety and evacuation of all personnel
Personal safety and evacuation of personnel is always the first priority in any emergency before addressing equipment, specimens, or data.
A laboratory worker accidentally ingests a small amount of a chemical reagent. After calling Poison Control, what information will they MOST need to provide?
Answer: The exact name of the chemical, amount ingested, and current symptoms
Poison Control requires specific chemical identification, quantity, and current clinical status to provide accurate treatment guidance.
In the event of an earthquake during a laboratory shift, what action should MLS personnel take if unable to evacuate?
Answer: Drop to the floor, take cover under a sturdy surface, and hold on
Drop, Cover, and Hold On is the evidence-based earthquake response protocol, as doorframes offer no special protection in modern buildings.
When a laboratory instrument fire occurs due to an electrical malfunction, which fire extinguisher class should be used?
Answer: Class C (CO2 or dry chemical for energized electrical equipment)
Class C extinguishers are designed for energized electrical fires; using water (Class A) on electrical fires creates electrocution hazards.
A new MLS asks when a decontamination shower (safety shower) should be activated for chemical exposure. The correct answer is:
Answer: Immediately upon any significant chemical splash to skin or clothing
Safety showers should be activated immediately for any significant chemical skin or clothing exposure without delay to consult documentation.