Semiannual inspections conducted by the IACUC should:

• A. be limited to a physical inspection of areas where animals are housed.
• B. use the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals as the basis for the inspection.
• C. inspect only those areas where NIH-supported research is conducted.
• D. All of the above

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that IACUC semiannual inspections are guided by the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals. The Guide provides comprehensive, accepted standards for every aspect of animal care and use—housing, husbandry, handling, veterinary care, facilities, equipment, training, and recordkeeping. Using it as the basis ensures the entire animal care program is evaluated, not just a physical check of where animals are housed. Inspections aren’t limited to NIH-funded areas, and they must cover all activities under the IACUC’s oversight, including procedures, welfare considerations, and compliance across the institution. So, relying on the Guide ensures a complete, consistent assessment, which is why this option is the best.