Final answer:
B) To Slow Down Bacterial Growth. Refrigerating the specimen prior to return slows down bacterial growth, preserving the sample and ensuring accurate test results.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a specimen is refrigerated prior to being returned, it is done to slow down bacterial growth. Refrigeration reduces the temperature, creating an environment that is less favorable for bacterial multiplication. This helps to preserve the quality of the specimen and prevent bacterial overgrowth, which could lead to inaccurate test results.