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Complete Exam Review Guide (English).
This document is a comprehensive study guide for the LAT (Laboratory Animal
Technician) certification exam in the United States. It covers essential topics such as
animal research regulations, IACUC functions, veterinary practices, laboratory
techniques, breeding protocols, anatomy, physiology, sanitation procedures,
genetics, and disease control. The guide includes definitions, procedures, injection
and blood collection techniques, environmental management, facility design, and
microbial status classifications, making it a complete resource for exam preparation
Latest Updated Exam Study Guide 2025/
U.S. Government provides approximately how much in research/development funds spent by college and university? - 2/ What information is important on grant applications to request funds? - Detailed description of research goals, scientific basis of study, and review of relevant literature and all procedures to be performed What is the difference between NIH & NSF? - NIH: primary granting agency: academia, federal agencies, biomedical research NSF: Basic research in math, medicine, and biology The USDA stands for what? - United States Department of Agriculture The USDA is responsible for what? - Enforces and amends AWA Auction, sale, exhibit, transport, breeding, or conduct of research with animals Animals exempt from AWA Research institutions mst register with Supply annual reports Inspection records through the FOIA Unscheduled inspection once per year What does the FOIA stand for? - Freedom of Information Act - provides the USDA's inspection records What is the Public Health Service Policy? - Institutions which receive funding from PHS and NIH must follow these guidelines, requires filing of an Amimal Welfare Assurance document that demonstrates the institution is following the Guid, PHS policy, AWA, and any other applicable laws The FDA has many responsibilites including: - Assures that new drugs and medical devices are safe and effective before approved for use in humans Monitors drug approval Includes human, and veterinary drugs, food, and medical devices Requires that effectiveness be demonstrated through well controlled investigations What is GLP? - Good Laboratory Practices Established in 1978 with implementation of laboratory audits and inspection programs Details requirements for QA and SOPs What is the importance of importation and transportations regulations? - For the protection of humans and environment from potential disease carrying organisms Which agencies control importation? - CDC, USDA, and US Fish & Wildlife Service Institutional polices are established for: - facility operations care and use procedures veterinary support physical plant Standard operating procedures relate to: - wall aspects of animal care and support personnel management
Complete Exam Review Guide (English).
This document is a comprehensive study guide for the LAT (Laboratory Animal
Technician) certification exam in the United States. It covers essential topics such as
animal research regulations, IACUC functions, veterinary practices, laboratory
techniques, breeding protocols, anatomy, physiology, sanitation procedures,
genetics, and disease control. The guide includes definitions, procedures, injection
and blood collection techniques, environmental management, facility design, and
microbial status classifications, making it a complete resource for exam preparation
Latest Updated Exam Study Guide 2025/
health surveillance of animals and personnel equipment investigators What are the functions of IACUCs and who mandates? - mandated by AWA, PHS policy, and the Guide Review and approve protocols for animal use Review animal use program and perform animal facilities inspections at least every 6 months What has to happen before animal research can begin? - principal investigator provides written details of how animals will be used in the research project IACUC must review all protocols using animals and must approve all protocols before any animal research can begin What does the IACUC determine? - Can deny permission ro start a project can stop a research peoject Ensures compliance with regulations Reviews complete protocols at least every 3 years; reviews updates to protocols yearly What is the AAALAC, International? - Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care, International Non-profit organization that provides a mechanism for peer review of animal care and use programs by scientific community Detailed application with information on facilities, procedures, programs, and research animals to use Annual report must be submitted to AAALAC on status of animal care program Site inspection and program evaluation every 3 years Why is it important to keep accurate, up-to-date records? - Determine if procedures are followed according to established standards Determine whether environmental controls are properly maintained Improve facility efficiency and effectivness What is PHS Policy? - All assurance records related directly to grant applications, research proposals, and changes of research activities > 3yrs after completion Centralized - Serves all the institution's animal care needs; 1 director for entire institution; All personnel associated with the animal facility; All other purchases, per diem, depreciation, inventories, operational costs, and supplies Decentralized - Each department has own animal facility and operating budget; each department has own animals, supplies, equipment and animal care staffing Direct costs - Salaries, fringe benefits, equipment, supplies, and operational exprenses (depend on # animals being housed) Indirect Costs - physical plant, energy costs, depreciation, heating rooms Cost Centers - Cage washing, laboratory services
Complete Exam Review Guide (English).
This document is a comprehensive study guide for the LAT (Laboratory Animal
Technician) certification exam in the United States. It covers essential topics such as
animal research regulations, IACUC functions, veterinary practices, laboratory
techniques, breeding protocols, anatomy, physiology, sanitation procedures,
genetics, and disease control. The guide includes definitions, procedures, injection
and blood collection techniques, environmental management, facility design, and
microbial status classifications, making it a complete resource for exam preparation
Latest Updated Exam Study Guide 2025/
Retro-Orbital - Blood Collection - Used for animals that do not have large veins; limited to rodents with large venous sinus or plexus posterior to the erye; animals typically under anesthesia; allow puncture vessel to clot and then pplace opthalmic ointment into the eye Saphenous - Blood Collection - To collect small samples from rodents, blood collected into a capillary tube; anesthesia not required; multiple samples collected in same day Cardiac Puncture - Blood collection - Needle placed through chest wall and into heart; withdraw blood slowly, dangerous procedure (must use general anesthesia, fatal in some animals, animal euthanized after procedure Tail Transection - Blood Collection - Method used to collect several drops of blood from mice or rats; controversial; justification for use may be required; Anesthesia recommended for animals older than weaning age Blood Volume - Total Blood Volume = 6% of body weight (varies depening on species, age, sex, etc.); Guideline used when sampling frequently (volume equal to no more than 1% of an animal's body weight can be taken every two weeks; ie: 3kg rabbit = 30ml blood Gastric Intubation (Gavage) - Most often used for rodents but can be used in larger animals; Gavage tupe attached to hypodermic syringe; hold animal in proper position Insert tube at approximately 45 degree angle (do not force tube); withdraw and start again if resistance is met while inserting the tube; use gag to prevent chewing of tube; avoid trachea; Ginea pig and Chinchilla - palatal ostium Heredity - hereditary characteristics are determined by units called genes, carried on chromosomes; genes are transmitted from 1 generation to the next, through asexual or sexual reproduction; genes are found in cell nuclei and composed of DNA; Every characteristic of an organism, from hair color to heart size, is determined by parental genes Ploidy - The number of copies of each chromosome in a cell; diploid = 2 copies (animals a lot of times have diploid); Haploid= 1 copy (sperm and egg cells) Locus - the specific location of a gene of a chromosome DNA Review - Chemical structure containing the blueprint for the organizm; shaped like a double helix; contained within the nucleus of the cell; passed to next generation in sperm and ova (gametes); subject to changes known as mutations, produced naturally, or experimentally Gene Expression - Single genes may affect more than one trait; but many genes may influence the expression of a single trait such as hair growth and color Gene Inheritance - Use of a punnett square helps identify all possible ways that offspring can inherit an allele from each parent Gene Linkage - Genes on the same chromosome are physically linked to each other and are usually inherited together; Genes on the same chromosome are inherited separately, because of cross over; genes located on different chromosomes are not linked Strain vs. Stock Nomenclature - Inbred strains are designated by capital letters or a combination of capital letters and numbers; Substrain = line number and/or name of the person or the lab developing substrain
Complete Exam Review Guide (English).
This document is a comprehensive study guide for the LAT (Laboratory Animal
Technician) certification exam in the United States. It covers essential topics such as
animal research regulations, IACUC functions, veterinary practices, laboratory
techniques, breeding protocols, anatomy, physiology, sanitation procedures,
genetics, and disease control. The guide includes definitions, procedures, injection
and blood collection techniques, environmental management, facility design, and
microbial status classifications, making it a complete resource for exam preparation
Latest Updated Exam Study Guide 2025/
Substrain - Line number and/or name of the person or the lab developing substrain: symbol is separated from it by a diagnoal; A/J indicated the A strain of mouse bred by Jackson Lab Reproduction and Breeding basics - Female's reproductive cycle goes through estrous; each cycle has 4 stages What are the 4 stages does a female's reproductive system cycle through during estrous? - Proestrus, Estrus, Mestestrus, Diestrus Anestrus is... - the long period of time between breeding seasons Ovulation occurs when... - When eggs or ova (ovum) are released from ovaries Sex hormones are produced naturally in both males and females as they mature and influence many "reproductive' traits including what anatomical features? - Decent of testes, development of mammary glands, mating behavior Sex hormones, known as _________, can be injected into females to do what? - Gonadotropins; when injected it can mimic or interrupt or synchronize natural production or cause superoverulation What is superovulation? - Induction of ovulation can be accomplished by IP injection of reproductive hormones (such as FSH and LH); treatment varies with species; ie) FSH - Follicle stimulating hormone - prepares the reproductive tract for pregnancy LH - Leutinizing hormone - causes the release of eggs from What is superovulation? - Induction of ovulation can be accomplished by IP injection of reproductive hormones (such as FSH and LH); treatment varies with species; ie)in mice, LH is given 46-48 hrs after FSH What is superovulation used for? - Technique used to collect many eggs from the same female Pseudopregnancy - Female mates with sterile male (possibly vasectomized; fetilization does not occur; Act of copulation stimulates female to release hormones in preparation to become pregnant; Females show signs of pregnancy, including release of ova, but no embryos result since there are no sperm and thus no offspring produced; brief since unfertilized ova do not implant in the uterus (in mice up to 14 days of typical 21 days Artificial Insemination and In Vitro Fertilization - Collection of sperm or eggs/embryos; necessary for production of some genetically engineered mice; Important for rederivation to eliminate certain diseases from a colony; Technique requires precise timing based on knowledge of reproductive cycles Egg and Embryo Collection - Removal of early stage embryos up to a few days old from the reproductive tract yields embryos for DNA injection or freezing (cryo-preservation); Taking later stage embryos, as pictured, enables study of development and when it goes awry; Performed surgically (for survival) and non-surgically (mice are euthanized); Survival (large animals) Non-survival (rodents); Oocytes can also be collected from females that have not been mated (from the ovary or oviduct).
Complete Exam Review Guide (English).
This document is a comprehensive study guide for the LAT (Laboratory Animal
Technician) certification exam in the United States. It covers essential topics such as
animal research regulations, IACUC functions, veterinary practices, laboratory
techniques, breeding protocols, anatomy, physiology, sanitation procedures,
genetics, and disease control. The guide includes definitions, procedures, injection
and blood collection techniques, environmental management, facility design, and
microbial status classifications, making it a complete resource for exam preparation
Latest Updated Exam Study Guide 2025/
Recombinant Inbred Strains - Recombinant inbred strains occur when crossing two different inbred strains, followed by brother/sister matings, or when inbreeding the F1 and subsequent generations of offspring; Helpful in genetic assessments: Determining the inheritance of traits, Interaction (linkage) between genes Co-isogenic - animals are ideal for studying effects of one single manipulated gene while all other genes remain identical Congenic - strains are used to determine how the genetic make-up of an individual influences the expression of a single gene Several factors can influence breeding such as: - Animal health - Of primary importance; Environmental conditions - Light, temperature, humidity, etc; Cannibalism and desertion - Caused by inexperienced females, overcrowding, poor environmental conditions, stress and disturbance What are some methods to verify breeding - Copulatory plug in rodents; Is not confirmation of pregnancy, only that mating has occurred How can you determine if the animal is in an optimal breeding period? - Vaginal cytology (Proestrus, estrus, or metestrus stage); Physical and behavioral signs (Lordosis) What factors affect litter size? - age of parents; older females may suffer dystocia; nutritional status; whether an outbred or inbred strain; genetic make-up; some genes are embryonically lethal in the homozygous state, so those embryos die in utero post-partum estrus - Some animals (e.g., mice, rats, and guinea pigs) have a post-partum estrus that occurs within 24 hours after giving birth, so re-mating can occur almost immediately. Dystocia - difficulty with birthing; Occasionally observed in many laboratory animal species. A breach is an example of dystocia. Occurs in older female guinea pigs which have not yet had a litter because the birth canal is smaller from fused pubis bones. May be facilitated with oxytocin, a drug injected to stimulate labor. What is Genetic Engineering? - Is the science of manipulating genes (DNA), and is used to artificially alter the genetic make-up of living organisms to study gene function. Mice are most often used in genetic engineering studies; sea urchins, rats, rabbits, and sheep, too.; Learn as much as you can about the genetically engineered animals under your care; The cost (and often luck) to produce genetically engineered animals is enormous; Loss of animals resulting from disease or poor husbandry, or inaccuracies resulting from incorrect records or improper breeding, can be disastrous to the investigator. What are some examples of genetic alterations? - Transgenic mice & knockout mice Transgenic mice - DNA from other sources (other animals, bacteria, chemically synthesized, plants) is inserted into the genome, at random knockout mice - Blockage of function or actual removal of specific genes on the chromosome; it is a targeted mutation of the DNA.
Complete Exam Review Guide (English).
This document is a comprehensive study guide for the LAT (Laboratory Animal
Technician) certification exam in the United States. It covers essential topics such as
animal research regulations, IACUC functions, veterinary practices, laboratory
techniques, breeding protocols, anatomy, physiology, sanitation procedures,
genetics, and disease control. The guide includes definitions, procedures, injection
and blood collection techniques, environmental management, facility design, and
microbial status classifications, making it a complete resource for exam preparation
Latest Updated Exam Study Guide 2025/
Three primary methods are used to insert DNA into fertilized eggs: - Pronuclear Injection, Retroviral Insertion, & Embryonic Stem Cell Insertion Pronuclear Injection - DNA is injected directly into the fertilized egg. Retroviral Insertion - DNA is attached to a virus, which carries the DNA into the egg. Embryonic Stem Cell Insertion - DNA is purified, then inserted into special cells via a tissue culture process called electroporation; these cells are then transferred into the embryos, which are then implanted into a recipient female. Clones - Most cells reproduce by mitosis: an identical copy of the genome is produced, and the cell splits into two identical "daughter" cells; used to denote an offspring that is genetically identical to its parent, usually created by removing the nucleus from an egg and inserting the nucleus from one of the parent's cells. centrosome - (also called the "microtubule organizing center") a small body located near the nucleus - it has a dense center and radiating tubules. The centrosomes is where microtubules are made. During cell division (mitosis), the centrosome divides and the two parts move to opposite sides of the dividing cell. The centriole is the dense center of the centrosome. cytoplasm - the jellylike material outside the cell nucleus in which the organelles are located. Golgi body - (also called the Golgi apparatus or golgi complex) a flattened, layered, sac-like organelle that looks like a stack of pancakes and is located near the nucleus. It produces the membranes that surround the lysosomes. The Golgi body packages proteins and carbohydrates into membrane-bound vesicles for "export" from the cell lysosome - (also called cell vesicles) round organelles surrounded by a membrane and containing digestive enzymes. This is where the digestion of cell nutrients takes place nucleolus - an organelle within the nucleus - it is where ribosomal RNA is produced. Some cells have more than one nucleolus nucleus - spherical body containing many organelles, including the nucleolus. The nucleus controls many of the functions of the cell (by controlling protein synthesis) and contains DNA (in chromosomes). The nucleus is surrounded by the nuclear membrane. ribosome - small organelles composed of RNA-rich cytoplasmic granules that are sites of protein synthesis rough endoplasmic reticulum - a vast system of interconnected, membranous, infolded and convoluted sacks that are located in the cell's cytoplasm (the ER is continuous with the outer nuclear membrane). Rough ER is covered with ribosomes that give it a rough appearance. Rough ER transports materials through the cell and produces proteins in sacks called cisternae (which are sent to the Golgi body, or inserted into the cell membrane). smooth endoplasmic reticulum - a vast system of interconnected, membranous, infolded and convoluted tubes that are located in the cell's cytoplasm (the ER is continuous with the outer nuclear membrane). The space within the ER is called the ER lumen. Smooth ER transports materials through the cell. It contains enzymes and produces and digests lipids (fats) and
Complete Exam Review Guide (English).
This document is a comprehensive study guide for the LAT (Laboratory Animal
Technician) certification exam in the United States. It covers essential topics such as
animal research regulations, IACUC functions, veterinary practices, laboratory
techniques, breeding protocols, anatomy, physiology, sanitation procedures,
genetics, and disease control. The guide includes definitions, procedures, injection
and blood collection techniques, environmental management, facility design, and
microbial status classifications, making it a complete resource for exam preparation
Latest Updated Exam Study Guide 2025/
Muscular System - Muscle tissue found in almost every part of the body and consists of three distinct types: Skeletal muscle, Smooth muscle, and Cardiac muscle What is the function of Skeletal muscle (striated muscle)? - Primary function is movement of bones What are the functions of smooth muscle? - Muscle contractions are involuntary, Walls of blood vessels and organs of digestive system What are the functions of cardiac muscle? - Specialized type of striated muscle; Normally self-stimulating, producing the continuous pumping of the heart What is the primary function of the circulatory system? - Primary function of circulatory system is to remove carbon dioxide and waste products from cells. What does the circulatory use in order to function? - The medium transport is blood. Blood is composed of a plasma portion and several types of cellular elements. Plasma comprises 55 percent of total blood volume. Erythrocytes are - most abundant type of blood cell. Where is erythrocytes produced? - Produced primarily in the bone marrow and aids the transport of respiratory gases What are Leukocytes and what are the 2 main types? - Less abundant than RBCs, Granulocytes and Lymphoid cells What are granulocytes and how are they classified? - Relatively large cells; nuclei are multi- lobed; cytoplasm contains microscopic granules; Classified based on straining properties: What are the classifications of granulocytes? - Neutrophils, Eosinophils, Basophils Lymphoid cells - Most commonly occur in lymph vessels and in the nodes along these vessels;- monocytes; - lymphocytes; Lymphoid and small white blood cells help make up the immune system Thrombocytes - Platelets essential for blood clotting; formation of hemostatic plugs or clots; serum monocytes - Large lymphoid cells lymphocytes - Small white blood cells What is the structure of the Circulatory System? - Heart - four chambers in mammals and birds What are the three separate tissue layers that compose the heart? - Myocardium; Epicardium, Endocardium Myocardium - heart muscle Epicardium - covers outer surface of myocardium Endocardium - delicate layer of tissue lining the inside of the heart's chambers The heart has 2 halves that each contain... - Each contains an atrium and a ventricle, which acts to collect blood and circulate it throughout the body What are the 3 types of blood vessels? - Arteries, Veins, Blood capillaries; Blood passes from the capillaries into the venous system; first through venules and then veins
Complete Exam Review Guide (English).
This document is a comprehensive study guide for the LAT (Laboratory Animal
Technician) certification exam in the United States. It covers essential topics such as
animal research regulations, IACUC functions, veterinary practices, laboratory
techniques, breeding protocols, anatomy, physiology, sanitation procedures,
genetics, and disease control. The guide includes definitions, procedures, injection
and blood collection techniques, environmental management, facility design, and
microbial status classifications, making it a complete resource for exam preparation
Latest Updated Exam Study Guide 2025/
What is the function of the blood capillaries? - Connect arteries and veins Facts about veins - Carry blood at pressures lower than arteries. Venous systems act as reservoir. Hold roughly 60% of total blood volume. Largest vein in body: Vena Cava, which lies next to the aorta. Vena cava empties into the right atrium. Circulation Control - Blood flows from an area where pressure is greater to an area where it is lower. Left ventricle is source of highest pressure. Blood pressure is recorded as diastolic and systolic pressures. Diastole occurs as the blood flows in and the ventricle is at rest. Systole occurs as the mitral valve closes just as the ventricle begins to contract. Blood is taken from the ventricles during a cardiac puncture procedure. Diastolic pressure - occurs as the blood flows in and the ventricle is at rest. Systolic pressures - occurs as the mitral valve closes just as the ventricle begins to contract Lymphatic System - the filter mechanism for the body; it provides one of the major defenses against pathogenic invasion What are the components for the lymphatic system? - Lymph, Lymphatics, Lymph Nodes The Respiratory System - Respiration - The exchange of gases between cells and the tissue fluids around them; Largely a mechanical process; gills and skin; lungs; gas exchange: O2 & CO2 by diffusion; aids vocalization, temperature and water loss in vertebrates Structures of vertebrate respiratory system consist of... - Nose, Pharynx, Larynx, Trachea, Bronchi, Alveoli, Lung What are the mechanisms of ventilation? - Air flows into the lungs if atmospheric pressure is greater than pressure within the lungs. Air flows out of the lungs if pressure within the lungs is greater that atmospheric pressure Exchange of gases and CO2 between blood in the capillaries and air in the alveoli occurs by diffusion - Venous blood arrives at lungs deficient in oxygen and rich in CO2. Gases are exchanged as the blood passes through the capillary at the alveolus The digestive system consists of... - Carnivore, herbivore, and omnivore; alimentary canal; stomach; rumen; intestines; cecum Gastrointestinal tract - Long tube called the alimentary canal consisting of several organs (e.g., stomach, intestines); Begins at the lips, teeth and tongue; Inside of digestive system lined with epithelial tissue What is the main difference between carnivorous and omnivorous compared to herbivores? - Carnivorous and omnivorous animals have one stomach; some herbivores (ruminants) have four specialized stomach compartments What is the primary purpose of the stomach? - Storage What is the duodenum and what happens here? - Most digestion occurs in first section of small intestine. What is the role of the cecum? - Digestion is accomplished by bacteria found in the cecum. Cecum is large in rabbits, horses, and rodents and helps to digest roughage. Cecum is small in other species, such as humans and dogs, and contributes little to digestion.
Complete Exam Review Guide (English).
This document is a comprehensive study guide for the LAT (Laboratory Animal
Technician) certification exam in the United States. It covers essential topics such as
animal research regulations, IACUC functions, veterinary practices, laboratory
techniques, breeding protocols, anatomy, physiology, sanitation procedures,
genetics, and disease control. The guide includes definitions, procedures, injection
and blood collection techniques, environmental management, facility design, and
microbial status classifications, making it a complete resource for exam preparation
Latest Updated Exam Study Guide 2025/
Circulation Clean/Dirty - Add pic Barrier & Containment Facilities - Barrier keeps contamination out; Containment keeps contamination inside; Keep the flow of traffic in one direction - from clean to dirty; Germ- free barrier: shower-in, enter through one-way air lock, protective apparel, work done under a laminar flow hood, all materials autoclaved, waste out separate route, air pressure positive to the surrounding areas Circulation Directional - Add pic "Modified SPF" - a barrier with less stringent procedures; animals purchased only from SPF vendors Containment - Requires protective apparel to protect the person; Personnel may be required to shower-out; Materials must be decontaminated; Negative air pressure; Air out may require sterilization or HEPA filtration. What does protecting from contamination require? - 1) Store feed, bedding and cages away from waste. 2) Wear protective clothing when working in animal areas. 3) Separate quarantine and receiving from animals on study. 4) Disinfect contaminated gloves, boots and equipment. How can we prevent allergen and pathogen exposure? - 1) Wear protective clothing while handling animals. 2) Remove contaminated protective clothing before entering lunch rooms, offices etc. 3) Do not wear uniforms or work shoes home. Caging Systems - permit freedom of movement and normal posture; identical housing for each animal on a study; weight and number of animals housed per cage; AWA, The Guide, USDA, PHS, AAALAC; comfortable, safe, escape-proof, with easy access to food and water; ventilation and be kept dry and clean; materials sturdy, durable, smooth, impervious; inspection of occupants without disturbing them ; normal interaction Selection of Caging Systems - age, weight, and size of the species; purpose for which it is to be used (short-term or long-term housing, individual or group housing, collection of clinical or metabolic samples, administration of test materials, or moving animals from one location to another); endure repeated use and sanitation and use in a variety of research programs for long-term applications Transport Cages - Food or water is not usually provided; Specialized transport cages fit up to opening of cage. Activity Cages - rodent - an attached wheel-shaped section; nonhuman primates - bars, ropes, swings, and sometimes toys; dogs and other larger animals - runs Recovery Cages - to hold an animal after surgical manipulation. also called therapy cages or intensive care units; heated floor, plexiglass door for easy viewing, can be fitted with environmental controls, port access for IV therapy or physiological monitors Inhalation Cage/Environmental Chambers - for exposure to test materials Test material in as a vapor, mist, or gas. Animals inhale the substance, pulmonary function measurements can be performed
Complete Exam Review Guide (English).
This document is a comprehensive study guide for the LAT (Laboratory Animal
Technician) certification exam in the United States. It covers essential topics such as
animal research regulations, IACUC functions, veterinary practices, laboratory
techniques, breeding protocols, anatomy, physiology, sanitation procedures,
genetics, and disease control. The guide includes definitions, procedures, injection
and blood collection techniques, environmental management, facility design, and
microbial status classifications, making it a complete resource for exam preparation
Latest Updated Exam Study Guide 2025/
Restraint Equipment - Holds animals securely but comfortably. Used to collect samples or administer materials. Collection and administration site access. Allows techs use of both hands for procedure. Complete sanitation between uses Design depends on species and duration of restraint (Plastic rodent cylinders, cat bags, pig slings, and nonhuman primate chairs are all classified as restraint equipment). Favorable response if conditioned. Keeps comfortable and stress-free Equipment monitoring - - air, fume hood, light, and water (Calibrate scales and maintain instruments. Rotate equipment in storage. ) What happens during the pre-rinsing stage of equipment use? - Pre-rinsing Urine precipitates form opaque scale. Use acid cleaners (descalers) before washing. 82.2°C surface temperature needed for effective sanitation. What happens during the room cleaning stage of equipment use? - Room cleaning Tools are room-specific. Log or record cleaning schedules. All permanent surfaces in the room are sanitized When monitoring the room think about... - Temperature, Humidity, lighting, air pressure What do you use to measure the Lab Environment's Humidity and Temperature - Measurement: (thermometer, minimum-maximum, thermometer, thermograph); Relative humidity (amount of water present in air; hygrometer, wet/dry bulb thermometer); Computerized systems automatically record environmental data. What are the standards for relative humidity? - Standard relative humidity = 30 to 70 %; What are the standards for temperature? - Standard temperature range =19°C to 26°C (Higher temperatures for post-operative recovery for birds, reptiles, many nonhuman primates, and hairless rodents.); What is the standard amount of fresh air room changes? - 10 to 15 fresh air room changes / hour standard; Either 100% fresh air or re-circulated air; Air filtered before and after leaving the room; Why is it important to maintain the fresh air in the room? - Reduce level of airborne pathogens, odors, chemical contaminants, and particulates; How can you measure the freshness of the air in the room? - Supply and exhaust measured with anemometer [measures the velocity of air passing through the vent expressed as cubic feet per minute (CFM)]; What determines positive or negative room pressure? - Adjustments to supply and exhaust flows What is Ammonia? - A gaseous by-product of the bacterial metabolism of urea, a substance found in urine; Heavier than air and becomes concentrated; Can be a serious problem in filter-top cages; Some commercial bedding material contains an ammonia inhibitor Mycoplasma pulmonis - may cause disease in the presence of a high ammonia What is the purpose of HEPA filters? - HEPA filters prevent airborne microorganisms from entering. HEPA filters are 99.7 percent efficient. (removes particles as small as 0.3 microns.)
Complete Exam Review Guide (English).
This document is a comprehensive study guide for the LAT (Laboratory Animal
Technician) certification exam in the United States. It covers essential topics such as
animal research regulations, IACUC functions, veterinary practices, laboratory
techniques, breeding protocols, anatomy, physiology, sanitation procedures,
genetics, and disease control. The guide includes definitions, procedures, injection
and blood collection techniques, environmental management, facility design, and
microbial status classifications, making it a complete resource for exam preparation
Latest Updated Exam Study Guide 2025/
What is important to consider when choosing a chemical? - Label Claims, spectrum of activity, effectiveness in hard water, stability of the pH, use of dilution, contact time, temperature, toxicity, evaluation method Label Claims - Chemical Selection - regulated by EPA under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act Spectrum of Activity - Chemical Selection - the specific organisms tested against the product Effectiveness in Hard Water - Chemical Selection - Hard water ions can inactivate chemical. Stability of the pH - Chemical Selection - Buffers prevent > pH changes from the concentrated to the diluted form or by additives such as soaps. Use Dilution - Chemical Selection - Using too much of product is wasteful and using too little may reduce or eliminate the antimicrobial effect. Contact Time - Chemical Selection - Essential that agent be in contact with surface long enough to kill the most resistant organisms present. Temperature - Chemical Selection - Heat could cause the evaporation of some of the components of the formulation Toxicity - Chemical Selection - thoroughly rinse away; Application - Mops and squeegees, Sprays, Immersion, Fogging, Fumigation Evaluation Methods - Chemical Selection - bacterial cultures What are the different types of sterilization? - Moist heat, dry heat, chemicals, and radiation What is the primary mean of sterilizing? - Steam autoclave is primary means of sterilizing. When testing sterility what is the most common biological indicator? - Resistant organism's indicators for testing sterility. Most common biological indicator are spores of the bacterium (Bacillus stearothermophilus) Small vials placed into the autoclave during a sterilizing cycle. Vial incubated to detect any growth of the spores. A color change indicates growth of the bacteria. No growth = sterilizing cycle is operating properly. What are some limitations to the moist heat sterilization method? - cutting edges dull : dry fabrics scorch, some wet materials corrode , some rubber and plastics deteriorate, certain materials don't mix with water, possibility of serious injury Moist Heat - Method - Hot water is effective only as a sanitizer. Steam is a good sterilizerunder pressure - temperature > 100°C (212°F). What is the minimum sterilization time and at what temperatures? (moist heat method) - Minimum sterilization time 15 minutes at 121°C (250°F) or 5 minutes at 132.2°C (270°F). Steps for Autoclaves - 1. Central chamber is surrounded by a jacket. 2. Steam saturated with water vapor and superheated under pressure. 3. Steam baffle prevents load from being saturated. 4. Drain present at the lowest point of the chamber. 5. Valves top and bottom permit the exit of air and steam 6. Safety valve if the steam pressure exceeds a safe level. 7. Air inlet and vacuum air filters remove particulates 8. In-line thermometer in the steam drainpipe 9. Door gaskets, joints and seals must be air-tight.
Complete Exam Review Guide (English).
This document is a comprehensive study guide for the LAT (Laboratory Animal
Technician) certification exam in the United States. It covers essential topics such as
animal research regulations, IACUC functions, veterinary practices, laboratory
techniques, breeding protocols, anatomy, physiology, sanitation procedures,
genetics, and disease control. The guide includes definitions, procedures, injection
and blood collection techniques, environmental management, facility design, and
microbial status classifications, making it a complete resource for exam preparation
Latest Updated Exam Study Guide 2025/
To run an autoclave - Steam in at top, displaces air out drain in bottom. •Only effective if all the air is removed. Air pockets prevent steam penetration and heat transfer. •Load equipment to be sterilized. •To start, close door tightly and turn on timer. •When the temperature reaches 121°C and pressure reaches 15 pounds per square inch (psi), the timer begins sterilization time. •Steam is then vented. •Drying cycle reduces residual moisture Dry Heat Method - Kills most commonly encountered microbes. •Requires long time (one to two hours at 160°C) to effectively sterilize. •Can scorch or burn certain materials. •Most common dry heat method is hot air oven. •Effective on equipment or bedding materials damaged by moist heat or chemicals. Commonly Used Chemicals - Glutaraldehyde, Formaldehyde (Toxic, carcinogenic, corrosive, and has limited penetrability. It should be used only by specially trained personnel), Peracetic acid, Chlorine dioxide, Ethylene oxide, Plasma sterilizers Radiation - Ionizing = gamma and beta •Non-ionizing = ultraviolet, or UV ... - •Disrupts microorganisms protein structure •Ionizing radiation can be lethal to humans •Gamma rays used on instruments and supplies. •Irradiated diets are nutritionally supplemented. •Non-ionizing radiation less penetrability. •Irradiated items are not radioactive. Vermin Control - Carriers of disease-causing agents •Walls and floors free of cracks and crevices •Pipelines, drains, and air filters well sealed •Inspect incoming supplies for vermin •Keep stored feed, bedding, and caging away from walls •Noninvasive = traps, sticky boards, boric acid, or silica •Eliminating feral or wild rodents = poisoning or trapping in areas outside the animal rooms. •Place traps with triggers or entry ports along walls •Control involving pesticides pest control personnel Safety & Hygiene - Instruct on precautions taken in work area and use of safety equipment. •Advise that use of safety equipment is mandatory. •Equipment must be available for any type of risk or exposure encountered. •Employee's responsibility to perform in a safe manner. •First aid stations / emergency eye-wash or shower stations / fire extinguishers / spill kits and instructions / emergency evacuation routes •Good personal hygiene needs to be enforced. Research Environment Hazards - Radioisotopes, living pathogens, carcinogens, and toxins What information is required when disclosing environment hazards - identity of biohazardous agent, the name and telephone number of responsible supervisor, and special requirements for entering Basic environment hazards - microorganisms not known to cause disease in healthy adult humans CDC classifies these organisms as BSL1 (Biosafety Level 1). Containment environment hazards - separate environment from public These organisms are classified as BSL2 (Biosafety Level 2), High containment environment hazards - may cause serious or fatal disease These organisms are classified as BSL3 (Biosafety Level 3).
Complete Exam Review Guide (English).
This document is a comprehensive study guide for the LAT (Laboratory Animal
Technician) certification exam in the United States. It covers essential topics such as
animal research regulations, IACUC functions, veterinary practices, laboratory
techniques, breeding protocols, anatomy, physiology, sanitation procedures,
genetics, and disease control. The guide includes definitions, procedures, injection
and blood collection techniques, environmental management, facility design, and
microbial status classifications, making it a complete resource for exam preparation
Latest Updated Exam Study Guide 2025/
disease extensive, more feasible to depopulate (euthanize) room or colony and disinfect the facility. Animal Acquisition - Centralized = better price, transport, housing and health. •Animals requests consider: source, strain, sex, age, weight, pathogen status, number and transportation. •Do not change suppliers until study is completed. •Vendor animal health survey - sample subjected to diagnostic procedures to determine health status. •Use correct terminology to describe pathogen status. •SPF or VAF may mean different things. •Larger animals screening - worming and vaccination schedules, health history, and USDA paperwork. When transporting animals which standards must be met? - AWA & USDA standards = length of time shipment held prior to departure (minimum and maximum temperature transport facilities size, ventilation and construction of containers, how many animals may be transported in a cage, air exchange and temperature in the animal cargo space, maximum length of time without food or water, how often checked while in transit, avoiding rough handling, health certificates Transportation - •Shipping containers: conventional = cardboard, SPF and germfree = filtered air vents •Document shipment conditions in vehicle and condition of animals on arrival What should be checked upon receiving new animals? - Receiving person must be aware of animals expected and instructions from the investigator on how they are to be housed. •Know orders placed, which vendor, what ordered, arrival, and purchase ID - required by federal inspectors. •Check specifications of order. •Cage cards and records •Physical examinations Why disinfect containers prior to opening after transport? - •Aseptically remove from containers and place in decontaminated cages in a pathogen-free area •May collect % for diagnostic confirmation of health status. •Conditioning: > 48 hours required for rodents; It is important to quarantine animal after shipment because... - Animals may become immunosuppressed and dehydrated during shipment. If exposed to a disease, more likely to become ill. Better to discover disease in quarantine, than in existing colony. What is ideal quarantine after shipment? - separate rooms or isolation cubicles, by vendor and arrival date or at least be separated by species During shipping, protect animals from ________, offer _________ and ______, food and water, and keep animal _____ and _____. - Protect from impact, offer ventilation and heat, food and water and keep animals clean and dry. •Display address, contact and special instructions. •Ship early in the week in order to avoid weekend delays. •Check with state veterinarian or the USDA prior. Species of animal determines shipping requirements. What are some things to consider when shipping animals? - Shipping of birds and cold- blooded animals = unique problems. Size and other animals in the group = # animals housed. Different sizes should not be shipped in the same container. Age must be considered; very young should not be shipped in a container with older animals unless they are suckling littermates with their dam.
Complete Exam Review Guide (English).
This document is a comprehensive study guide for the LAT (Laboratory Animal
Technician) certification exam in the United States. It covers essential topics such as
animal research regulations, IACUC functions, veterinary practices, laboratory
techniques, breeding protocols, anatomy, physiology, sanitation procedures,
genetics, and disease control. The guide includes definitions, procedures, injection
and blood collection techniques, environmental management, facility design, and
microbial status classifications, making it a complete resource for exam preparation
Latest Updated Exam Study Guide 2025/
Quarantine - observed for signs of disease For larger animals, includes treatment for internal or external parasites, tattooing, checking tuberculosis, and treating diseases. Conditioning - the period during which animals are becoming adjusted to their new environment. Work in quarantine only after work with all other healthy animals. •Negative room air pressure so undesirable microorganisms pass directly into exhaust system. •Uniform change commonly required after leaving Health monitoring is to ensure... - validity of experimental data; •Identify and prevent viral, bacterial, and parasitic diseases. •Sentinel animal monitoring; Direct or indirect exposure Environmental monitoring - changes in the environment amount, age, quality, and palatability of food and water; temperature and humidity; ventilation effectiveness, light cycle lengths, noise level , type of bedding material, presence of pheromones and chemical disinfectants Effects of Mouse Hepatitis Virus (MHV) on Research - high mortality in newborn mice; alters study of the immune system Effects of Sendai Virus on Research - bronchitis and pneumonia; profound influence on the immune system Effects of Mycoplasmosis on Research - highly contagious, progressive, inflammatory disease; affects respiratory, reproductive & immune systems Effects of Pasteurellosis on Research - Pasteurella multocida, "snuffles" in rabbits; can infect respiratory, reproductive system & middle ear When disease strikes a colony, what might be needed to eradicate the disease? - Often times the only way is to euthanize entire colony, disinfect area and start over with new animals. The time and expense of this kind of drastic procedure can be disastrous to research programs. Conventional - Microbial Status - under standard conditions, number and types of microbes are not specifically known Specific Pathogen Free (SPF) - Microbial Status - describes only those microorganisms they do not contain, term SPF alone says nothing about which are present Gnotobiotic - Microbial Status - defined microbial flora Axenic - Microbial Status - completely free of all detectable microorganisms and parasites Caesarean - Microbial Status - Derived or Caesarean-Origin: mammals delivered by surgical means Barrier-Reared or Barrier-Sustained - Microbial Status - raised in a controlled microbial barrier, which prevents the entrance of pathogenic organisms Isolator- Equipment and Supplies - rigid type - stainless steel or plexiglass & flexible type - clear plastic film Individual Micro-Isolator™ - shoebox-type plastic cages that have a hard plastic lid with a special filter Barrier is at the cage level. One disadvantage is that air exchange may be reduced. Ventilated cage racks - supply HEPA filtered air Supply a constant flow of fresh air to the animals, which reduces ammonia and carbon dioxide levels inside the cage; Provide either
