California Cosmetology Written ExamSafety and Infection ControlHard
While trimming a client's cuticles, a cosmetologist accidentally nicks the skin and blood appears. What is the FIRST action the cosmetologist should take according to California blood exposure procedures?
- AApply a topical antiseptic directly to the wound
- BDisinfect the workstation surfaces before addressing the wound
- CStop the service immediately and put on clean gloves
- DContinue the service after covering the area with a bandage
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Stop the service immediately and put on clean gloves
The first step in the CA blood exposure procedure is to stop the service immediately and put on clean gloves before touching the wound, protecting both the client and technician from bloodborne pathogen exposure before any further steps like cleaning, bandaging, or disinfecting are taken.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Antiseptic should be applied after gloves are on, not as the very first step.
- B. Surface disinfection comes later, after the wound has been addressed.
- D. Continuing before proper wound care and disinfection violates protocol.
Blood Exposure Procedure
A required step-by-step protocol for handling accidental cuts or blood exposure during a cosmetology service to prevent bloodborne pathogen transmission.
- Stop service immediately and put on gloves first
- Clean wound with antiseptic using single-use materials
- Cover wound with adhesive bandage before resuming
- Dispose of contaminated materials in sealed bag; disinfect all surfaces/tools with EPA-registered disinfectant effective against HIV/HBV
Memory trick: 'Stop, Glove, Clean, Cover, Clean-up' — SGCCC saves the day.