Which description best reflects sterile technique for aliquoting reagents?

• A. Always wear gloves and sterilize work surfaces only.
• B. Mix reagents with unsterile equipment to save time.
• C. Employ sterile technique, aseptic handling, minimize exposure, and store properly.
• D. Labeling is optional.

Answer: (C)

The idea being tested is maintaining sterility during aliquoting by using true sterile technique and careful handling. Sterile technique means more than just wearing gloves; it includes preparing a clean work area, using sterile tools (like pipette tips and tubes), and keeping containers closed whenever possible. Aseptic handling ensures each step is done without introducing contaminants, and minimizing exposure reduces the time reagents are open to the environment, which lowers the risk of contamination and degradation. Proper storage after aliquoting preserves reagent integrity and prevents growth or deterioration.

The other descriptions don’t fit because they miss essential parts of maintaining sterility: just wearing gloves and sterilizing surfaces overlooks the need for aseptic handling and proper storage; using unsterile equipment directly compromises sterility; labeling being optional ignores essential traceability and safe identification.