California Cosmetology Written ExamClient Consultation and AnalysisMedium
A client arrives for a scheduled service and the cosmetologist notices a small cluster of fluid-filled blisters with a red base near the corner of the client's mouth. The client mentions it is a 'cold sore' that appeared yesterday. What should the cosmetologist do?
- AApply antiseptic to the lesion and proceed with the service
- BRefuse the service and reschedule until the lesion has completely healed
- CProceed with the service but wear gloves
- DCover the lesion with makeup and proceed with the service
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Refuse the service and reschedule until the lesion has completely healed
A cold sore is caused by the herpes simplex virus and is highly contagious through direct or indirect contact. Services should be refused and rescheduled until the lesion is fully healed to prevent spreading infection to the cosmetologist or other clients.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Cosmetologists are not licensed to treat or medically manage skin lesions.
- C. Gloves don't fully prevent transmission and services near the mouth may still risk contact.
- D. Covering with makeup does not eliminate contagion risk and is inappropriate.
Herpes Simplex (Cold Sore)
A contagious viral infection causing fluid-filled blisters, typically around the mouth, that requires service refusal until healed.
- Caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 typically)
- Highly contagious via direct/indirect contact
- Service should be refused/rescheduled until fully healed
Memory trick: Cold sore = close the door on service until it's gone