ALAT Certification and Animal Care Quiz

Certification and Regulations

• To prepare for the ALAT certification exam, study the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals.
• AALAS Technician Certification comprises three levels: ALAT, LAT, and LATg.
• IACUC stands for International Animal Care and Use Committee, responsible for reviewing animal use protocols.

Organizations and Policies

• The Animal Care Panel (ACP) was formed in 1950 by Dr. Nathan Brewer.
• In 1967, ACP was renamed to the American Association for Laboratory Animal Sciences (AALAS).
• The PHS Policy mandates the use of live vertebrates in research and regulates their care.

Animal Care and Usage

• An Animal Use Protocol is prepared by the Principal Investigator, requiring IACUC approval.
• AVMA Guidelines for Euthanasia must be followed when euthanizing research animals.
• The Animal Welfare Act (AWA) emphasizes the provision of exercise opportunities for dogs in laboratory settings.

Safety and Health

• OSHA enforces workplace safety regulations.
• Pregnant employees should avoid working with cats due to the risk of toxoplasmosis.
• Personal protection against radiation relies on time, distance, and shielding.

Hazardous Materials

• Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) provide chemical toxicity information and recommended treatment for exposures.
• The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) oversees radioactive material handling and storage.

Zoonosis and Disease

• Zoonosis refers to diseases transmitted from animals to humans, including Toxoplasmosis gondii from cats.
• Q-Fever is associated with sheep, and Tuberculosis can be transmitted by nonhuman primates.

Animal Husbandry

• The average life span of a goat ranges from 8 to 12 years.
• Female cats are referred to as Queens, and males are called Toms.
• The cheek pouch is a notable anatomical feature of hamsters that aids research.

Animal Care Procedures

• Assess animal health early in the morning to ensure proper care.
• Subcutaneous means situated or occurring under the skin.
• Microisolator cages should be changed in a ventilated workbench to maintain sterility.

Scientific Classification

• The scientific names include:
  • Dog: Canis familiaris
  • Cat: Felis cattus
  • Sheep: Ovis aries
  • Goat: Capra hircus
  • Mouse: Mus musculus

Emergencies and Preparedness

• Facilities should maintain a disaster plan that outlines emergency contacts and evacuation procedures.
• Periodic disaster drills are crucial for assessing the effectiveness of emergency systems.
• Eyewash stations utilize clean water under low pressure to wash out contaminants from the eye.

Miscellaneous

• Brown fat helps maintain body temperature in young animals.
• An annual report must be submitted to the USDA by December 1st.

Test your knowledge on the ALAT certification and the regulations, policies, and organizations related to laboratory animal care. This quiz covers important topics such as IACUC, AVMA guidelines, and the Animal Welfare Act. Prepare for a successful career in laboratory animal sciences by brushing up on these key concepts.