ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) Version 7ScienceHard
A scientist is designing an experiment to investigate the effects of a new drug on cellular metabolism. They decide to use a radioactive isotope of carbon (14C) to trace the fate of glucose within cells. Which ethical consideration is most paramount when handling and disposing of this isotope?
- AObtaining informed consent from any human participants involved.
- BMinimizing exposure to personnel and proper waste disposal.
- CEnsuring the research is peer-reviewed prior to experimentation.
- DEnsuring the drug's efficacy is thoroughly tested before isotope use.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Minimizing exposure to personnel and proper waste disposal.
When working with radioactive isotopes, the primary ethical and safety concern is to protect personnel and the environment from radiation exposure. This involves strict protocols for handling (e.g., shielding, personal protective equipment) and meticulous disposal of radioactive waste according to regulatory guidelines.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Informed consent is crucial for human participants, but the question specifically asks about handling and disposing of the *isotope*, which may not involve human participants, or could be a separate ethical consideration.
- C. Peer review is important for scientific rigor but is not directly related to the safe handling and disposal of hazardous materials during the experiment itself.
- D. While drug efficacy is important for the research itself, it is not the paramount ethical concern related to the *handling and disposal* of a radioactive isotope.
Radioactive Isotope Safety
The practices and regulations designed to minimize radiation exposure to individuals and the environment when handling and disposing of materials containing radioactive isotopes.
- Radiation can cause ionization and damage to living cells.
- Strict protocols for shielding, containment, and personal protective equipment are essential.
- Disposal must follow specific regulatory guidelines to prevent environmental contamination.
Memory trick: Radiation Risk Requires Responsible Rules.