Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) Practice Exam

What is the first step when a medical lab technician's lab coat is on fire?

1. Stop, drop and roll

2. Drag the MLA to the safety shower

3. Spray the MLA with water

4. Phone the fire department

The correct answer is: Stop, drop and roll

The appropriate response when a medical lab technician's lab coat is on fire is to "stop, drop, and roll." This method is a well-known technique for extinguishing flames on a person's clothing. When someone is on fire, the immediate instinct may be to run around or panic, which can worsen the situation by causing flames to spread. By stopping, the person halts any movement that could potentially stoke the fire. Dropping to the ground helps to remove themselves from the flames, and rolling smothers the fire by depriving it of oxygen. This technique is crucial as it allows for quick and effective action to minimize injury before additional help can be sought. The other options involve actions that may not be the safest or most effective for extinguishing flames. Dragging someone to a safety shower could cause further injury or exposure to flames. Spraying someone with water while they are still in flames may not fully extinguish the fire and could lead to burns. Contacting the fire department is important but should not be the first action taken if the technician is in immediate danger.