Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

What is the purpose of using tranquilizers?

1. To induce general anesthesia

2. To calm and sedate the animal

3. To relieve pain

4. To enhance recovery

The correct answer is: To calm and sedate the animal

The purpose of using tranquilizers is primarily to calm and sedate the animal. Tranquilizers are medications that help reduce anxiety and agitation, allowing for a smoother handling process in various situations, such as during examinations or when performing certain procedures. By inducing a state of relaxation without necessarily causing full unconsciousness, tranquilizers facilitate safer interactions between animals and veterinary staff, and help ensure that the animal remains calm, reducing the risk of injury to both the animal and the personnel involved in its care. In contrast, the other options refer to different purposes associated with other types of medications. Inducing general anesthesia (the first option) involves rendering an animal fully unconscious, which is not the goal of tranquilizers. The third option, relieving pain, is typically addressed by analgesics, rather than tranquilizers. Lastly, the enhancement of recovery (the fourth option) is generally more aligned with post-operative care and may involve different classes of medications entirely.