Which action should a nurse take if they are unfamiliar with handling formalin?

Reading the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is the most appropriate action when a nurse is unfamiliar with handling formalin. The MSDS provides comprehensive information about the chemical properties, hazards, handling, storage, and emergency measures related to exposure. This resource is specifically tailored to give guidance on ensuring safety when using potentially hazardous substances like formalin, which is a solution of formaldehyde in water used commonly in medical settings.

By consulting the MSDS, the nurse can learn about the specific risks associated with formalin, appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to wear, and steps to take in case of an accident or exposure. This ensures that the nurse can safely manage the substance while adhering to workplace safety regulations.

While contacting the pathology department or looking up formalin in a drug handbook might provide assistance, these resources may not offer the same detailed safety and handling protocols as the MSDS. Informing a healthcare provider about being unable to use formalin, while important for communication, does not help the nurse develop the needed knowledge to handle it safely or effectively in the future. Therefore, engaging with the MSDS is the optimal route to ensure safe and informed handling of formalin.