Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

What is the term used to describe the period of adjustment that newly received animals undergo?

1. Isolation period

2. Transition period

3. Acclimation period

4. Quarantine period

The correct answer is: Acclimation period

The term "acclimation period" refers to the time it takes for newly received animals to adjust to their new environment. During this period, animals experience changes in temperature, humidity, diet, housing, and other environmental factors, which can affect their wellbeing and behavior. Acclimation is crucial for ensuring that the animals adapt comfortably to their new surroundings, minimizing stress, and establishing stable conditions that can lead to successful study outcomes. Other terms like "isolation period" and "quarantine period" are often confused with acclimation but refer to different concepts. Isolation typically pertains to separating animals to prevent disease transmission or to allow for observation before they are integrated into a larger population. Quarantine, on the other hand, specifically involves holding animals in isolation to monitor for potential diseases before they are introduced to other animals, ensuring the health of the overall population. The transition period is not a widely recognized specific term in laboratory animal care literature to define this adjustment phase. Thus, the acclimation period is the most accurate term to describe the adjustment newly received animals undergo.