A health worker is packing a vaccine carrier for an outreach immunization session using frozen ice packs taken directly from the deep freezer. What is the correct preparation step before placing them in the carrier?
- A Wrap each ice pack in aluminium foil to prevent direct contact with vials
- B Partially melt the ice packs by holding them under running hot water
- C Condition the ice packs at room temperature until ice moves freely inside and the surface is wet ✓
- D Place them directly in the carrier since freezing temperatures protect all vaccines
Correct answer: C. Condition the ice packs at room temperature until ice moves freely inside and the surface is wet
Explanation
Frozen ice packs must be conditioned by leaving them at room temperature until the ice begins to shift inside the pack and condensation appears on the surface. This prevents contact between vaccines, especially freeze-sensitive ones like Hepatitis C and pentavalent, and a frozen surface that can cause irreversible freeze damage. Foil wrapping and direct placement are incorrect practices; hot water thawing is wasteful and uncontrolled.
Reference: WHO Immunization in Practice: A Practical Guide for Health Staff, 2015 update ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.