Question

Before the evidence is even opened, there are certain procedures an analyst must follow for each and every piece of evidence. Which of the following is NOT one of them?

a. Make sure the work area is sanitary.
b. Lay down a fresh sheet of paper.
c. Clean the area with a bleach solution.
d. Clean the area with a hydrogen peroxide solution.

Answer 1

In a laboratory, cleaning the area with a bleach solution is common, while using a hydrogen peroxide solution is not typically a required pre-analytical procedure.

Step-by-step explanation:

When preparing to analyze evidence in a laboratory setting, certain procedures must be followed to maintain an aseptic and safe work environment. Among the procedures listed, the one that is NOT commonly required is cleaning the area with a hydrogen peroxide solution. Proper procedures include making sure the work area is sanitary, laying down a fresh sheet of paper, and cleaning with a bleach solution, which is typically used because it is an effective disinfectant commonly recommended in microbiological protocols. Hydrogen peroxide is also a disinfectant, but it is not as commonly mandated for pre-analytical cleaning as bleach solution.