Chemicals
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is used as a disinfectant or sterilant. It is commonly used as a preservative in medical laboratories and mortuaries.
Formaldehyde is also used to prepare viral vaccines, as an embalming agent, a tissue fixative, and in the sterilization of medical equipment. Paraformaldehyde, a solid polymer of formaldehyde, can be heat vaporized for the gaseous decontamination of laminar flow biologic safety cabinets. Additionally, formaldehyde is often found mixed in water and referred to as formalin.
Healthcare workers may be harmed by exposure to formaldehyde. It can irritate the skin, throat, lungs, and eyes. Repeated exposure to formaldehyde can possibly lead to cancer. The level of exposure depends on the dose, duration, and the work being done.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
1-6. Allison has been working in a morgue for several years and has had repeated exposure to formaldehyde. What health issue may she experience?
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