If an arrestee vomits in your car, which statement is correct regarding future arrestees?

If an arrestee vomits in your car, which statement is correct regarding future arrestees?

• A. They should be told to deal with it.
• B. False, you clean it up.
• C. You should immediately replace the vehicle.
• D. You should wait until the end of shift to address it.

Answer: (B)

When an arrestee vomits in a patrol car, the priority is health and safety—for you, the arrestee, and anyone else who uses the vehicle. The correct approach is to clean and disinfect the area promptly following your department’s sanitation procedures. This protects against exposure to pathogens, keeps the vehicle ready for the next arrestee, and maintains a sanitary transport environment. Telling the arrestee to deal with it is unsafe and unprofessional, and replacing the vehicle every time isn’t typically required for a single incident. Waiting until the end of your shift also unnecessarily delays cleaning and increases risk. After cleaning, follow your protocol for disposal and documentation.

When an arrestee vomits in a patrol car, the priority is health and safety—for you, the arrestee, and anyone else who uses the vehicle. The correct approach is to clean and disinfect the area promptly following your department’s sanitation procedures. This protects against exposure to pathogens, keeps the vehicle ready for the next arrestee, and maintains a sanitary transport environment. Telling the arrestee to deal with it is unsafe and unprofessional, and replacing the vehicle every time isn’t typically required for a single incident. Waiting until the end of your shift also unnecessarily delays cleaning and increases risk. After cleaning, follow your protocol for disposal and documentation.