A working lab must follow regulations to contain the spread of infection. Standard
precautions and transmission-specific precautions must be used to prevent students from droplet, airborne and direct contact with potentially infected fluids. The basics of infection control include washing hands before and after interacting with a client. Barrier protection, such as eyewear, masks, gloves and gowns, must be worn whenever there is potential exposure. Containers, sharp objects and other sterile equipment is disposed of immediately and properly in biohazard containers.
Fatal allergies to latex are not uncommon. Some laboratory equipment, such as gloves, is available in latex-free versions, but not all lab equipment comes with such an option. IV tubes and bladders often contain latex. Students must inform their teacher of any allergies they have and wear latex-free gloves when using other plastic tools.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has strict policies regarding the disposal of sharp objects such as needles or blades. Called "sharps" in nursing parlance, all items must be disposed of in special containers marked "sharps only." If a student is accidentally stuck by a needle, the area is washed immediately, and the incident is reported to school health authorities.