What is the first action you should take if an injury occurs in the lab?

The appropriate first action when an injury occurs in the lab is to assess the situation and provide first aid. This response is crucial because it allows you to evaluate the severity of the injury and determine the immediate needs of the injured person. First aid may involve performing life-saving measures, notifying others about the situation, or preparing to seek further medical assistance if necessary.

Prioritizing the assessment and first aid can help stabilize the injured person and prevent further complications. Assessing the situation includes checking for any hazards and ensuring that the environment is safe for both yourself and the injured individual. By administering first aid promptly, you can directly impact the outcome of the situation, potentially saving a life or mitigating injuries.

Other options, while they may seem relevant in some contexts, do not appropriately address the immediate responsibilities of a lab worker during an injury. Relying on someone else to handle it or seeking out a supervisor could delay essential care, and calling for backup without first assessing the injury might also contribute to a lack of timely help for the injured person.