If a lab test shows a cholinesterase drop of 30 percent below the established baseline, what should be done?

• A. Retest immediately
• B. Ignore and continue
• C. Increase exposure to pesticides
• D. Schedule the next annual test

Answer: (A)

Cholinesterase monitoring is used to detect exposure to certain pesticides that inhibit this enzyme. A drop of about 30% from the established baseline is a significant indicator that exposure may be occurring and that a quick check is needed. The immediate retest is the best action because it verifies whether the initial result was accurate or a lab variation. If the retest confirms a decline, the safety protocol would guide removing the worker from exposure and arranging medical evaluation, but the first step is to confirm the finding with another test. Ignoring the result, increasing exposure, or delaying action until the next annual test would keep the worker at risk and miss the chance to intervene promptly.